A classic question. What defines a human? There's that story about the "featherless biped" and Diogenes bringing a plucked chicken, calling it a human. These days, we could go into genetics and turn out to be almost pigs. Everybody has their own answer, and the other day I stumbled upon one that is on a different level.
Within ten days thou wilt seem a god to those to whom thou art now a beast and an ape, if thou wilt return to thy principles and the worship of reason.
Marcus Aurelius, Meditiations, Book 4, Chapter 16.
That doesn't sound a like a definition of human?
Because it isn't, and yet it is. I didn't really get it at first, but a good friend offered an interpretation: Beasts and apes are the common humans, the masses, of which each and every one has the potential to become a philosopher to a certain degree. Those who choose that path soon encounter themselves separated from the masses, and recognize each other.
If you choose that path, those who are already on it will soon be able to distinguish you from the masses.
Okay now, "beasts" and "apes" are a little disrespectful at first glance, but I'm pretty sure there wasn't much political correctness nor egality movements back when Marcus Aurelius was slaughtering barbarians to defend the Roman Empire. But at second thought, taking in the ramifications, it makes more sense.
And it's about what defines a human.
Not in the body, but in the behavior. Our body has a few advantages over animals, sure, but it's mostly our metaphysical capabilities that had us conquer the world. Some animals, including apes, do have quite a few of those, but not to the same extend as humans.
If humans took advantage of their capabilities...
The world would be a different place if every human lived up to the potential they had. And for me personally, it's incredibly frustrating to see that they don't. It was. For a long time. Because I really try to do so, and it's working, and yes it takes effort but it's absolutely worth it. Why can't they see that? Why don't they act on it? Argh.
And then came the serenity.
And it was realizing that many people stay closer to being apes, being lead more by instincts and emotions than values and rationality. Sounds arrogant, I know, but it really helped me to see the world from a different angle. And no, it doesn't mean that they're worth less or that they're "below" me. They're different. Their path is different. And now, when our paths cross, it's a lot easier for me to accept them as they are, leading to so much more positive encounters.
Or not.
Sure, there are still some that I have to deal with constantly, but even those I can now handle in a better way. At least on my side. Finding ways to still achieve the best possible outcome for everyone, from my perspective of course, using my power not to fight and crush them, but to find balance, even when they try the opposite. If possible. Won't go out of my way for them, either.
Others deserve more of my energy.
Those who do want to harvest their potential. I know a few cases. And they're incredible. From barely passing school to successful business owner. From beaten down addict to a thriving builder of community with a life full of joy. From drug dealer and prison to hard working, caring and loving family man. Just a few examples.
It's those who face the demons.
Those who put in the work, not only physically, but in their mind and spirit. They reflect, repent, improve. And that separates them from the masses.
Some will still see us as apes and beasts, maybe, those who have advance so much further. We probably won't become world leaders. We don't have to. But we'll become a better version of ourselves with each step on that path.
And while that path is intertwined with mine, I will enjoy watching us grow.
What are your thoughts about this topic? Please feel free to engage in any original way, including dropping links to your posts on similar topics. I'm happy to read (and curate) any quality content that is not created by LLM/AI, as well as read your own experience and point of view, I love to learn!
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