Ancient Stoics and the Contented Life

Tues., Oct. 20, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Time: 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Location: In person: Arcata

Cost: $40

With Elliott Dabill, California Naturalist

This class will summarize one version of the classic Stoic philosophy, including how to live a contented life, how to handle insults, how to manage difficult decisions -- all developed thousands of years ago (before cell phones and modern distractions). Many philosophers contributed to this rigorous plan to live in a complicated world; they include Marcus Aurelius (Emperor), Seneca (close to emperors) and others that taught how to distinguish things you can control from those that you must accept. A life of virtue includes items incorporated into Christianity. Follow this guide for a brief summary and suggested readings for a life plan that is yours uniquely, but based upon human nature.

Register by 12 p.m., October 17.

Elliott Dabill

Elliott Dabill is a volunteer docent for the Bureau of Management Arcata Field Office, leading Trinidad Lighthouse Tours within California Coastal National Monument, and Salmon Pass Tours within the Headwaters Forest Reserve. 

He is a retired high school biology teacher and enjoys connecting to people to our local natural and cultural history. Elliot is also the president of the Friends of the Arcata Marsh and has lead hikes through the Marsh, local redwood forests, and historic Old Town Eureka.