A

July    28th

CHECK   YOUR    PRIVILEGE

“Some   people  are sharp   and others  dull;   some    are raised  in  a   better  environment,    others  in  worse,

the latter, having  inferior    habits  and nurture,    will    require more    by  way of  proof   and careful

instruction to  master  these   teachings   and to  be  formed  by  them—in the same    way that    bodies  in  a

bad state   must    be  given   a   great   deal    of  care    when    perfect health  is  sought.”

—MUSONIUS   RUFUS,  LECTURES,   1.1.33–1.3.1–3.

t the end of a frustrating exchange, you might find yourself thinking, Ugh, this person is such an
idiot. Or asking, Why can’t they just do things right?
But not everyone has had the advantages that you’ve had. That’s not to say that your own life has been
easy—you just had a head start over some people. That’s why it is our duty to understand and be patient
with others.
Philosophy is spiritual formation, care of the soul. Some need more care than others, just as some have
a better metabolism or were born taller than others. The more forgiving and tolerant you can be of others
—the more you can be aware of your various privileges and advantages—the more helpful and patient
you will be.