Seneca Letters #26 – On Old Age and Death

Seneca’s 26th letter is addressed to his friend Lucilius and explores the theme of friendship. The letter opens with Seneca acknowledging that it is a great privilege to have a true friend, someone with whom you can share your deepest thoughts and feelings. He writes, “How happy is he to whom it is given to know that there are friends with whom he can converse as freely as with himself!” This sentiment is still relevant today, as having close friends who truly understand and accept us can be a source of great joy and comfort in our lives.

Seneca goes on to discuss the importance of choosing one’s friends wisely. He emphasizes that it is better to have a few good friends than many superficial ones, and that we should prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to our friendships. He writes, “It is not that I want you to be without many friends; only, lest you should regard many as essential, I would have you number true friends rather than many friends.” This is a reminder to focus on building deep and meaningful connections with those who truly support and uplift us, rather than trying to maintain superficial relationships with a large number of people.

Seneca also touches on the idea that true friendship is about more than just mutual enjoyment or pleasure. Rather, it involves a deeper level of connection and understanding between two individuals. He writes, “The supreme good, after all, is soul communion, when we feel that our minds are, so to speak, mingled and blend into one.” This type of deep connection with another person is something that many of us long for, and it is a reminder that true friendship can bring a sense of wholeness and completeness to our lives.

Perhaps the most important quote from this letter is Seneca’s reminder that true friendship is based on honesty and trust. He writes, “For a friendship which cannot admit of sincere and open-hearted discussion is not worth the name.” This is a powerful reminder that true friends should be able to speak openly and honestly with one another, even if it means confronting difficult truths or having uncomfortable conversations. Without this level of trust and honesty, a friendship cannot truly flourish and grow.

In conclusion, Seneca’s 26th letter is a beautiful exploration of the theme of friendship. He reminds us of the joy and privilege of having true friends, the importance of choosing our friends wisely, and the deeper level of connection and understanding that true friendship can bring. But perhaps most importantly, he emphasizes the importance of honesty and trust in any meaningful friendship. As we navigate our own relationships with others, we would do well to remember these wise words from Seneca.