Everything Has Two Handles

Wednesday Wisdom #175 + Controversial Quote Breakdown

Happy Wednesday, wisdom lovers!

Last week, we wrote about The Hidden Wisdom of Combat 

This week: Everything Has Two Handles

Now, let's get to it 👇

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Weekly Reflection

The Stoics were masters at metaphors. Across their written works, you’ll find countless metaphors, all of which serving the purpose of conveying a deeper philosophical message. In Epictetus’ Enchiridion, he mentions that everything has two handles. What message is he trying to tell us?

“Everything has two handles: one by which it may be carried, the other by which it can’t. If for example, your brother or sister treats you poorly, don’t grasp the situation by the handle of hurt or injustice, or you won’t be able to bear it or you’ll become bitter. Do the opposite. Grasp the situation by the handle of familial ties. In other words, focus on the fact that this is your brother or sister, that you were brought up together, and thus have an unbreakable bond.”