Part 7/9:
An essential Stoic tenet is that men are disturbed not by things, but by their perceptions of them. This is well articulated by Epictetus, who asserts the importance of our thought processes in shaping our emotional reality. Ultimately, we can control only our reactions to external events—the true locus of power lies within our minds.
2. Amor Fati: The Love of Fate
The practice of amor fati, or loving one's fate, is crucial in Stoicism. Accepting that we are part of a complex natural process allows us to view every experience—good and bad—as an opportunity for growth. Rather than resisting the uncontrollable, one can find strength in embracing life as it unfolds.