Seneca,

If you’ll forgive for the shortness of this letter, I find myself a touch ill these past few days.  Today’s letters covered several topics:  the nature of fasting and ascetic practice in regards to Fate, and a bit on anger.

The example you gave of old growth trees which might repel mighty flames for a long time, versus the lightest fluff  for which a single rogue spark might cause a great conflagration is well taken.

I suppose, then, it is our duty to become like those old trees, not immune and unfeeling to the fires of anger, but far better able to tolerate them, and keep their effects from our core.

On fasting, you mention it is as difficult to take a “Cynic vacation” for a few days, as it is to live in the mold for a lifetime.  I’m not sure that’s true.  A man can withstand almost anything with an end in sight, it’s the unknown journey which prompts the most fear and hardship.

Farewell.

Part of Michel Daw’s Reading Plan of Seneca’s Letters.