The Philosophy of Stoicism and Masonry
Many of the thoughts from the Stoics give rise to the practice of Masonry.
One of the Stoics, Marcus Aurelius, wrote: "If at some point in your life you should come across anything better than justice, truth, self-control, courage, it must be an extraordinary thing indeed."
Masonry must be extraordinary because we seek to practice these virtues. We value justice, speak of courage when we use the word fortitude; temperance is the art of self-control; and wisdom is demonstrated by being prudent.
As Masons, we should be aware of and heed the advice of other Stoics:
M"Don't explain your philosophy, embody it." – Epictetus.
M"If it is not right, do not do it, if it is not true, do not say it." – Marcus Aurelius.
M"You become what you give your attention to...If you yourself don't choose what thoughts and images you expose yourself to, someone else will." – Epictetus.
M"Be tolerant with others and strict with yourself." – Marcus Aurelius.
M"If anyone can refute me, show me I'm making a mistake or looking at things from the wrong perspective, I'll gladly change. It's the truth I'm after, and the truth never harmed anyone." – Marcus Aurelius.
M"Waste no more time arguing what a good man should be. Be One." – Marcus Aurelius.
M"First say to yourself what you would be, and then do what you have to do." – Epictetus
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