All my life I have been what I believe is referred to as a 'Stoic', although don't quote me on this. I take the rough with the smooth and realise sh*t happens. I just get on with things, get the job done and take it all in my stride without kicking up a fuss or getting mad. I try to live my life by the words of the famous poem 'If', and I think this best describes my character.
Do you think this a good life philosophy or is too old-fashioned? I just want to be a gentleman and, when required, a rock to those around me no matter what the peronal expense. Never waver, never give in, just suck it all up, pull my shoulders back, and carry on.
Is this the right attitude, do you think, or does complaining and being confrontational bear more merit in your book?
Thanks so much.
2007-01-11 06:41:07 · 22 answers · asked by DaveyMcB 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I think you are a very strong man! I do NOT think that complaining and being confrontational is better. I believe that way to be the easy, weak way! I do not think you are being "old fashioned", I think you are very wise. After all, where does complaining, whining and finger pointing get people? Most of the time, it just makes them feel worse and doesn't solve anything!
I say, Keep it up! I think more of us should have more of YOUR traits! :-)
Cheers
2007-01-11 06:49:23 · answer #1 · answered by PennyPickles17 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Stoicism is old fashioned but that is what makes it so admirable. It takes considerable strength of character to live life as you describe it and that is why so many less-endowed people have to kick and scream when anything goes wrong in their life - it's always easier to blame someone else and try to win the fight from the canvas.
However, some things (people, really) have to be confronted from time to time or they will try to take advantage of you. If someone asks for your help, give them your help but that doesn't mean that you have to take the problem away from them and make it your own.
2007-01-11 15:23:44 · answer #2 · answered by Jellicoe 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think it is a very mature and independent attitude, and I'm sure people around you appreciate the fact you support them as well as dealing with your own troubles. But be careful, because you'll end up feeling drained and emotional if you grin and bear everything rather than confront stuff and allow yourself a break from being tough. Yes, keep good manners and be yourself, but don't lose sight of how important you are, not just other people.
2007-01-11 14:48:55 · answer #3 · answered by Mingu 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I'm like that too, I let a lot of things go rather than kick up a fuss. I think it's a good way to be, unless you are a doormat, in which case it would be bad. It's ok to be supportive, but if the "personal expense" is going to cause you problems, consider setting some limits.
2007-01-11 14:49:13 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 0⤋
Not sure, but it almost sounds very passive. There are times for confrontation, but not to the point of violence. Let me suggest you add this to your philosophy... you prolly heard it before...
May God grant me the SERENITY to accept the things I cannot change, the COURAGE to change the things I can, and the WISDOM to know the difference.
I think you basically have the right attitude, but if you have a good idea and keep quiet for fear of being confrontational, then everyone looses. Food for thought.
2007-01-11 14:55:43 · answer #5 · answered by tmarschall 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Rudyard Kipling's "If" has been a great influence on my life, too. I think it would even be fair to call it one of the foundation stones of my life and personal philosophy. It contains very sage advice, so I think you're on the right track. There are times, though, when forgiving and letting things slide off your back isn't appropriate. Sometimes we have to stand up for ourselves and demand justice, just as we would for others.
Have you read many of the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson? They're extremely good, too. I recommend _Self-Reliance_ as a first step, if you've not read Emerson before.
2007-01-11 14:46:01 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
You sound ok to me. I refuse to be around negative, angry, or rude people. I also refuse to be around bigots as well. Why? Because my life has become less stressful and I'm a lot more relaxed now that i have weeded these people out of my social life. At work, I practice the same thing. Everyone art work knows not to come near me with these tendencies (even if they're temporary) because I won't be reciprocal to them. That being said, I don't mind being a friend when someone is angry and/or upset-as long as its not part of their character makeup.
2007-01-11 14:49:05 · answer #7 · answered by tombollocks 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Complaining never really solves anything. In most cases, it makes matters worse. Your approach to life is one that deserves cu-dos. I wish you continued good fortune and pray that in all of your efforts you achieve great rewards.
Jesus was the best example for all to model themselves after. He wasn't afraid to expose frauds or wrong doings either. If you strive to be like Him, you will go much further and enjoy a happiness that you have never known.
2007-01-11 15:18:48 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
In my humble opinion there's too much conflict in the world we live in. If we could all get along, the world would be a much better place to live in. Just carry on being you. I don't think you are being old fashioned, just sensible. I hate confrontation myself, but sometimes you just can't help circumstances taking you down that road.
2007-01-11 14:48:15 · answer #9 · answered by JillPinky 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Usually a good way to live but don't carry it too far. Some things must be opposed, if they just go too much against what you think is right. Cannibalism, slavery, and things like that just cannot be tolerated IMO.
2007-01-11 15:04:45 · answer #10 · answered by campbelp2002 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋