Simon: So Geoff, how goes Epicureanism for you?
Geoff: Fucking peachy Simon. How about you?
S: Quite terrible. I am failing at this right now.
G: I don’t think that can be quite right. I have read quite consistently that there is a strong link between Epicurean and Stoic philosophies but I’ve actually found that while Stoicism required a real focus and a constant fear that you were “failing”, Epicureanism, if it has anything to do with the rules that we have set for ourselves (probably not?) is a wonderful excuse to enjoy life. I’ve been living three days of doing what I please. In fact, I have been pushed into doing more of the things that bring me pleasure than I otherwise would.
S: I think it’s just a confluence of events that is conspiring to have me fail, in particular, the friendship challenges we set ourselves. My day job and my hobby are all, this week in particular, taking up a lot of my time, and it seems that if there is one thing you need to maintain friendships, it’s time.
G: Yeah, but again, you can’t actually fail. By having to eat with other people, you’re pushed to value that time and to actually take the time to engage with people.
S: Sure, but the fact that I’ve eaten the majority of meals since Sunday alone, would beg to differ.
G: Mmm, maybe you need to write more journals at the end of the day and reflect on how you’re not using your time pleasurably...
S: Yes, well, I have been examining my anxieties...
G: Anxieties? I have no anxieties! Everything is pleasure and happiness.
S: Don’t interrupt, happy boy.
G: Okay, this blog post is weird and going nowhere. I’m leaving. Be sure that I’ll be enjoying whatever it is I move onto. Out.
S: Well, that’s our status report, I guess. Epicureanism in action?
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