Tom Ellis
Nov 27, 2020

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Well said, on the whole. It is useful to distinguish between two kinds of happiness which the Greeks designated as hedonia and eudaimonia. The first is the momentary gratification we all get from experiences we enjoy, whether it’s music, chocolate, sex, fishing, or conversation with family or friends. It is pleasant and gratifying, but it never lasts. Eudaimonia (lit. Good spiritedness) is the deep, adamantine peace of mind that comes of cultivating benevolence and compassion, and is manifested as quiet, selfless joy and equanimity.

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Tom Ellis
Tom Ellis

Written by Tom Ellis

I am a retired English professor now living in Oregon, and a life-long environmental activist, Buddhist, and holistic philosopher.

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