The Weight Of What Remains
Manage episode 464568530 series 3439095
Lately, I’ve been wrestling with a sense of stagnation, feeling like I’m simply going through the motions of life without a clear sense of direction or purpose. I turn to Stoicism for guidance, but I often find myself questioning whether I’m truly applying its principles or just studying them from a distance. Marcus Aurelius reminds us to focus on the task at hand, to strip away distractions, and to act as if every moment is our last. But what happens when that focus brings us face-to-face with a reality that feels bleak, uninspiring, or even hopeless?
In this episode, I reflect on what it means to stay present when the present moment feels unbearable. I’ve spent so much time isolating myself, withdrawing from the world, and struggling to find meaning in the daily grind. Relationships slip away, ambitions seem unreachable, and the weight of what remains feels heavier than ever. And yet, there’s still something to be learned from this space, even if it’s just the recognition that I am still here, still trying, still searching for clarity.
Stoicism teaches us that we should master a few essential things: discipline, self-control, and acceptance. But what if, despite our best efforts, we feel stuck? What if we feel like we’re failing at life itself? I explore these questions, sharing my frustrations, my doubts, and my exhaustion. But in doing so, I also uncover something else—a quiet resilience, a willingness to keep going, even when the path ahead is unclear.
Maybe that’s the real lesson. Maybe presence isn’t just about being engaged with what’s in front of us, but about allowing ourselves to sit with our struggles without being consumed by them. Maybe it’s about learning to carry the weight of what remains with grace, patience, and just enough hope to take another step forward.
Thank you for listening and joining me on my journey of self-discovery!
Mediations and Prompts influenced from The Daily Stoic Books
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