I am an early riser year-round. But the summer time, when waking early does not mean sitting in the dark but rising with the sun is different to me.
This morning in particular feels special. The window is open; the air is pleasant and cool for a July morning. I hear birds, squawk and bicker.
But it is the parts of the day that are missing, that I cherish the most. The lack of people. The absence of cars. There is a pleasant and quiet solitude here, in the early mornings, that I appreciate. That I really savor.
I hope you find moments like this in your day too.
Stoa
Where I share finds on thought and philosophy I found intriguing this week
Marcus Aurelius on Socrates - This was a great read and I look forward to reading his forthcoming Graphic Novel adaptation on the Life of Marcus Aurelius.
Bruce Lee on Self Actualization - I found this gem whilst browsing pockets best of. Lee seemed like he was an incredibly insightful person, and I think anyone trying to build good flow of life can learn something from his writing.
Don’t surround yourself with Admirers - instead, surround yourself with people you admire. This seems like excellent advice. The people we spend time with have a profound impact on who we are and what we do, so perhaps it is worth considering what the folks you spend time with, bring to the table.
Curia
Works related to democracy and liberty
Europe Braces for Life After Biden - It is good to see some native English speakers write on this topic. Everyone talks about the “great decoupling” between the US and China, few— in the english speaking world, at least, are aware of the drift that is occurring between the US and Europe. There’s more to be said here, but save that for its own, longer post.
Satire could become Sedition in Hong Kong - If you want to see suppression of liberty, look no further than this city on a rock. Anyone who supports the right to self determination or holds liberal values, should both be troubled by what has been happening in Hong Kong— but also take it as a case study for how authoritarians world-wide could try (and are trying) to stifle freedom if and when, they are given the opportunity.
This Week
A variety of finds I came across this week, sometimes bound by a theme; sometimes not.
This week I listened to a fascinating podcast episode on Existential risk. You can listen to an abbreviated version here. Suffice to say the arguments presented are fascinating, perplexing and troubling.
Cyberpunk came true. So what’s next? - The title captures the topic pretty well. This was first published early last year, but still as relevant.
Thanks for reading and your support.