🖼️ Monday Muse
The Monday Muse is a weekly collection of reminders, insights, and maxims on the art of living. The term “muse” has two meanings: (1) a state of deep thought; and (2) a source of inspiration. May the following (in a small way) be a source of contemplation and wisdom to live your highest good.
📌 Perennial Reminder(s)
The American professors Rachel B. Griffis, Julie Ooms, and Rachel M. De Smith Roberts (previous podcast guests) on the art of deep reading:
Deep Reading, therefore, functions as a manual for reading practices that do not depend on certain kinds of texts but apply to any work meant to be read deeply. … To learn to read deeply, we need resources to resist the vices that thwart our attention to the written word. … Amid these concerns about the effects of digital technology on our humanity, Deep Reading provides resources for those seeking tools to resist the temptations of distraction and to better engage the subversive, soul-forming goods that a life of reading offers. […]
Source: Deep Reading
📜 Perennial Maxim(s)
The Irish writer Samuel Beckett (1906—1989) on failing better:
Follow us: Instagram | Youtube
💡 Perennial Insight(s)
The English philosopher and writer Roger Scruton on Spinoza and reason:
Spinoza tells us that we are essentially desiring, acting creatures; but he also argues that ‘a desire that arises from reason cannot be excessive’. So long as we conduct our lives by the rule of reason, therefore, we shall be living in accordance with our true nature, and achieving fulfilment. …
The one who lives by the dictates of reason is the ‘free man’ – the person who is active rather than passive in all that involves him. … The free man, in Spinoza’s encomium, is a lofty but cheerful character, with no traces of Calvinist gloom. He ‘thinks of nothing less than of death, and his wisdom is a meditation on life, not on death’. He steadfastly pursues the good and avoids evil, is robust in overcoming dangers, and also in avoiding them, and is scrupulously honest. […]
Source: The Great Philosophers: Spinoza
💀 Dying Every Day
The Stoic philosopher Seneca (4 BC—65 AD) on reasons not to worry:
Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube
—
Thank you for reading; I hope you found something useful.
Until next time, be wise and be well,
J.W. Bertolotti
P.S. If you’re interested in becoming a member but cannot afford it, feel free to request a complimentary membership or use this discount link.