No one is saying that what you’re dealing with is fair. No one is saying that it’s your fault. But what the Stoics would say, no matter what “it” is, is that you’ve got it. Whether you have control over events or not, you can handle whatever comes your way.

As Marcus wrote to himself, likely on some morning when he was struggling with some unexpected crisis or unplanned obstacle, it’s best not to say, “This is unfortunate.” Don’t tell yourself, “I’ve been harmed.”

It’s better to say, as Marcus did, “No. It’s fortunate that this has happened and I’ve remained unharmed by it—not shattered by the present or frightened of the future. It could have happened to anyone. But not everyone could have remained unharmed by it.” 

Isn’t that true? We all know people to whom whatever we’re dealing with would be a lot bigger deal. Most people have never read a book in their life or done even the slightest bit of work on themselves. Which means that whether we’re talking about a bankruptcy or a bad piece of press, a troublesome employee or a flight delay, few are as well-equipped to handle any situation as you are. 

So it’s not crazy to say, “Better you than them.”

Because you’ve done the work. You can handle it. 

You will handle it.

P.S. This was originally sent on December 16, 2018. Sign up today for the Daily Stoic’s email and get our popular free 7-day course on Stoicism.