"Therefore the first step of progress is the laying aside of all self-assurance and complacency. The disciple must become a fool, in order that he may become wise: he must empty himself of all vanity before he can be filled with wisdom. " Wouldst thou be good ? " he asks; " then first know that thou art evil." Therefore the beginning of philosophy is the consciousness of our own weakness...
Moreover the disciple is cautioned not to announce the fact that he is " taking a course in philosophy." He is to make no proclamation of his new resolve, and is not to speak much of things philosophic. " Fruit grows thus: the seed must be buried for some time, hid, grow slowly in order that it may come to perfection. Let the root grow, then acquire the first joint, then the second, and then the third: in this way the fruit will naturally force itself out." ...
Epictetus next recommends that the new resolve be aided by a new mental and moral environment. As physicians advise a change of climate, so the disciple should make for himself a new and congenial atmosphere. " Do you also introduce other habits than those which you have: fix your opinions and exercise yourself in them. Fly from your former habits, fly from the vulgar, if you intend ever to begin to be something."...
Blessings
(Photo: the Door of Humility, Bethlehem)
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