The Smooth-flowing Life

Legend has it that the astronomer Ptolemy (1st century A.D.) suggested that falling stars were caused by the gods moving in the heavens, thus knocking stars out of their places. Somehow people reasoned that that if the gods were moving, they must be getting close to earth so they would lift their "prayers" or "wishes" (literally, "desires") whenever they saw the stars falling in hopes the gods would notice and grant a favorable answer. But how does one wish on falling star? Once you see it, it's gone before the wish or prayer can be made! The answer is simple: meteor shower. That's how to get your wish.

Mrs. Ann Hodges had a wish fall right into her lap. Sort of. In 1954 Mrs. Hodges was sleeping on the couch when a 8 1/2 pound meteorite fell through her house and into her living room where it bounced off the radio and struck her left hip leaving her with a bruise. Not sure what she was wishing, but that's not how to do it.

Epictetus helps us understand with simplicity that all will be well if we pray, desire, want, wish for things to happen as they happen. One cannot have such an immense understanding of all things to wish well enough, so it is easier to desire things to happen according to nature--as they will--instead of according to our limited knowledge. A traveler may pray for a clear day of sunshine while a farmer along the way may be praying for rain.

"And all will be well" in our quote can is also translated "and your life will be serene" (literally, "smooth flowing).

All is well when we allow things to happen as they will. In other words, accept reality and act accordingly.

"As terrifying and painful as reality can be, it's also the only place where you can find true happiness and get a decent meal. Because reality is real." (James Halliday, "Ready Player One")