The Art of Living....is hard work



The Art of Living.....is hard work.....

Moral Compass, acrylic,

I have started a new book, "The Art of Living" The Classical Manual on Virtue, Happiness, and Effectiveness, By Sharon Lebell

"Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some things are within our control, and some things are not. It is only after you have faced up to this fundamental rule and learned to distinguish between what you can and can't control that inner tranquility and outer effectiveness become possible." The Stoic philosopher Epictetus was born on the eastern edges of the Roman Empire in A.D. 55, but The Art of Living is still perfectly suited for any contemporary self-help or recovery program. To prove the point, this modern interpretation by Sharon Lebell casts the teachings in up-to-date language, with phrases like "power broker" and "casual sex" popping up intermittently. But the core is still the same: Epictetus keeps the focus on progress over perfection, on accomplishing what can be accomplished and abandoning unproductive worry over what cannot. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

I'm sure that if I went back into my childhood I will recognize the lessons that are in this book. But, as I am getting older and life has pulled some punches my opinions that were so strong when I was younger seem to be blending into a softer line. Not everything I see or hear can be so black and white. I no longer see good or bad, or even if your not with me than your against me attitude. Age has soften me. I'm not as judgemental and think mostly that somethings I read in the news, well, frankly, are just not my business!!!!

I painted the painting above before I even know that maybe my "morale compass" may have turned a degree or two.

I'm seeking the good life, the easy life, one where I do not suffer so hard with choices I make.

No Shame, No Blame.

I will post lessons I've learned or not learned. But right from the beginning the book quotes the Serenity Prayer.

Something to think about,

Be Inspired,

~Jean