Epicurus said something that was deeply surprising to me. He said that “old age is the pinnacle of life.” How is that possible? Isn’t old age the worst of times? How can it be the best of Times?
In his classic manuscript the Vatican Sayings, Epicurus made this profound statement:
“It is not the young man who should be considered fortunate but the old man who has lived well, because the young man in his prime wanders much by chance, vacillating in his beliefs, while the old man has docked in the harbor, having safeguarded his true happiness.”
Typically, the young man has not done much. He has accomplished little.
The old man who has lived the fulfilled life has found the safe harbour away from the storm. He is happy and content. When a person is content it is no longer necessary to strive. One is satisfied. That was the life Epicurus wanted.
That is philosophy for old men. Of course, it goes without saying, that this philosophy is also perfect for the old woman as much as the old man. Epicurus believed in the radical equality of men and women. So I could say, just as well, this is a philosophy for old women.
John… I have the impression that you’re wondering about Epicurus’ philosophy on old men and women…how many happy old people do you know?
Don
I know a lot of old men and women, but you are probably the oldest good sir.
Don
I fear my reply to your comment was rather flippant. I hope you understand that I mean it as a joke. Jokes often don’t across well on a computer. Let me be clear. You are one of the most amazing men I know. For your chronological age you are extremely young and fit to such an extent that mere mortals like me are insanely jealous. Keep up the good work. You could teach me and many others a lot about growing old wisely and well. Though you could lose some of your striving, but perhaps striving is your magic bullet? Whatever your solution is I wish I had it.