Practice Gentleness Rather Than Anger

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This week, I’ve been reflecting on a powerful idea from Marcus Aurelius, who reminds us that people don’t intentionally choose to be unjust or unkind—they often act out of ignorance or confusion rather than malice. It’s a deeply Stoic perspective that challenges how I see others and myself. When I truly understand that many mistakes come from not knowing better, it opens the door to forgiveness—not just for others, but for myself. 

I’ve been wrestling with my own struggles: the gap between what I know and what I actually do, especially around money, habits, and personal growth. I can be overconfident in my knowledge, yet fall short in practice, and that gap weighs on me. Sometimes I feel stuck in survival mode, lacking motivation or a clear direction, which can spiral into self-judgment and despair. But I’m learning that humility isn’t about beating myself up; it’s about recognizing where I’m at, and choosing to move forward with small steps instead of giving in to defeat. 

I’ve also been thinking about how I relate to others—how bitterness and resentment can take root when I expect life to be fair or people to behave as I think they should. Stoicism teaches me that my peace depends not on others’ actions but on my own response. Holding grudges only drags me down. Forgiveness, then, becomes a gift I give myself—a way to release that burden and open space for growth. 

It’s not easy. Forgiving myself is often the hardest part. I’ve lost important relationships, made mistakes I regret, and feel the weight of missed opportunities. But I’m learning to meet those moments with kindness, patience, and understanding—recognizing that I’m on this journey just like everyone else, trying to learn and improve. 

This episode is about embracing forgiveness as wisdom in action, not weakness; about finding strength in grace; and about the ongoing challenge of aligning our actions with our values, even when it’s tough. I hope my honest struggles remind you that you’re not alone—and that every day offers a chance to choose compassion, for others and yourself. 

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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