There seems to be a rise in interest over Stoicism and while I don’t care for the commodification or commercialization of such interest (I don’t see it ever getting as bad as yoga), it brings up a few considerations.

First is those who look deeply at the tenets of the philosophy of Stoicism, they find remarkable similarities with Buddhism. I’ve heard it said that Stoicism is Buddhism with attitude, which isn’t entirely off the mark.

The next is its connection to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Having spoken with people who have gone through this form of therapy and found it very helpful, their remarks for how they feel afterward are incredibly… well… stoic. I would even argue it’s just repackaged ideas.

However, one of the most important and key lessons is that all things are transient.

When you have bad crap going on in your life—that will pass.

When you have good things going on in your life—that will pass, too.

We live in the moment, but shouldn’t find ourselves wrapped up in the idea that this moment is all there is and will be. Unless, of course, we’re speaking about the Christian concept of eternity, but we’re obviously not there.

If you think about it, most of us are forgotten within two generations. I mean, how often do you sit around and tell stories about your great grandparents?

This isn’t meant to be a depressing thought, but a freeing one because it gives us the freedom to let go. The universe will continue on and whatever is happening—shall also pass.

Let it.