Stoic tips for the Class of 2024  – by Herb Weiss

By Herb Weiss, contributing writer on aging issues

Photo: Nancy Thomas, UMassBoston

Throughout May, across the nation at colleges and universities, commencement addresses are being given by well-known politicians, judges, television or radio personalities, actors, and even Fortune 500 CEOs. These commencement speakers, offering sound advice and inspiration gleaned from personal life experiences, provide advice to graduating seniors as to how they can successfully navigate both their personal lives and professional careers throughout the years ahead. 

These speeches, traditionally about 10 minutes in length (up to 2,500 words), will vary widely, and can either be serious or lighthearted, but they should all be authentic, motivational, and informative.

Over the years, as I have stated in previous commencement speech articles that I have penned, I have called for “regular folks” who have overcome obstacles throughout their lives to be invited speakers.  One year I put the spotlight on Rhode Island authors, noting that they had valuable insights to share.  

This week, I offer my commencement speech, giving the graduating seniors advice, pulling from stoicism, a school of Hellenistic philosophy that thrived in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome.

According to Wikipedia, Stoic philosophers were known for their teaching that “virtue is the only good” for human beings, and that health, wealth, and pleasure, are not good or bad in themselves, but have value as “material for virtue to act upon.”

To the Graduating Class of 2024…

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed faculty members, proud parents, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2024: Congratulations! 

This day marks a very significant milestone in your life’s journey. Today, you must reflect not just on your past achievements and failures, but also on the philosophies and values that have and will now guide you throughout the journey that lies ahead. Today, I want to share with you some timeless wisdom from the Greek and Roman Stoic philosophers, whose teachings offer invaluable insights into how to navigate the complexities of life with resilience, wisdom, and virtue.

Incorporating Stoicism’s timeless principles will provide you with a philosophical framework for confronting life’s complexities by pursuing a path of fulfillment and virtue. And what is Stoicism, you say? This philosophy emphasizes resilience in the face of adversity. It also calls for focusing on what is within your control, embracing change, and cultivating your virtue and character.

Stoic philosophers also encourage you to align your values to find meaning and purpose in your life, to maintain inner peace, and to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around you. 

So now I provide you with sound advice from prominent Stoic philosophers that you can ponder and, if you choose, put into practice.

First and foremost, remember the words of Epictetus, a former slave in Hierapolis (modern-day Turkey) around 50 CE, who became one of the most renowned Greek Stoic philosophers: “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.”  Yes, life is full of surprises and unexpected challenges. While you may not be in control over external events, you most certainly have control of how you respond to them. Embrace each obstacle that comes your way with courage and resilience and remain committed to your values, these hurtles ultimately becoming opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.  

Epictetus also said: “The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.” As you begin the new chapter of your life, surround yourself with people who share your values and aspirations that will uplift, inspire and support your personal and professional growth. Cherish the relationships that enrich your life and let go of those that no longer serve you.

Cultivate a sense of gratitude

Additionally, Epictetus urged fostering meaningful connections and cultivating a sense of gratitude throughout your life. As he observed, “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” Be grateful for the blessings, both big and small, that come to you each day. Throughout your life cultivate empathy, be kind and compassionate to others. In every situation you find yourself in, strive to leave a positive impact on those around you.   

Seneca the Younger, who lived in the 1^st century CE, called for the cultivation of the virtue of equanimity (emotional stability) that allows one to respond to situations with clarity and exposure. As the Roman Stoic philosopher, statesman and playwright aptly said, “True happiness is to enjoy the present, without anxious dependence upon the future.”  Don’t become consumed by worry and anxiety about future obstacles you may face, because in all probability these problems will never happen.  Embrace the here and now, (As Ram Das says, “BE HERE NOW”) and know that you do have the ability to handle whatever challenges the future brings your way.  

Pursue excellence, not perfection    

Furthermore, prioritize the pursuit of excellence over the pursuit of perfection, recommends Stoic Philosopher Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor who ruled from 161 to 180 CE. He is best known for reminding us that “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” Don’t fixate on meeting unrealistic standards of perfection, but focus on making continuous steady improvements and personal growth. Throughout your life continue to learn from each and every mistake, refining and sharpening your skills. Always strive to become the best version of yourself. 

Aurelius, best known for his philosophical work “Meditations,” is also known for this Stoic quote: “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive to breath, think, enjoy, and love.”  Don’t worry about things that could go wrong, but remember to enjoy what life has to offer. When beset by problems, remember that your life is a precious gift and a privilege “to breathe, think, enjoy, and love.”

Lastly, embrace and accept the inevitability of change. As the Stoic Greek philosopher, Heraclitus famously said, “The only constant in life is change. Rather than resisting the natural flow of life, learn to embrace it with grace and humility,” he urged. Life’s uncertainty gives you an opportunity for growth. Trust in your ability to adapt to life’s curve balls thrown at you and you will thrive in the face of change. Heraclitus says that true strength lies not in resisting, but in embracing change as an essential part of the human experience.

As you embark on your journey ahead, remember that the teachings of Stoic philosophy offers a timeless roadmap for living a life of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. Embrace the challenges, cherish the moments, and above all, stay true to your values and principles that guide you.

Congratulations once again, Class of 2024! May your futures be filled with personal and professional success, happiness, and an unwavering commitment to living with wisdom and virtue. Thank you.

For more details about Stoicism, go to https://www.dummies.com/article/body-mind-spirit/philosophy/general-philosophy/stoicism-for-dummies-cheat-sheet-301382/.

To see examples of some of the Stoic quotes to help you on make the most of your  life’s journey, go to: 72 of the best stoic quotes from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Epictetus and more.

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Herb Weiss, LRI -12, is a Pawtucket-based writer who has covered aging, health care and medical issues for over 43 years. To purchase his books, Taking Charge: Collected Stories on Aging Boldly and a sequel, compiling weekly published articles, go to herbweiss.com.