Seneca Letters #62 – On Good Company

Seneca’s Letter #62, “On Good Company,” highlights the importance of choosing one’s company wisely. The letter focuses on the idea that spending time with good people is crucial for personal growth and happiness. The letter is particularly relevant in today’s age of social media, where we often feel like we’re surrounded by people but may still feel lonely and disconnected.

Seneca begins the letter by stating, “I look upon you as being really wretched, for you have never been deprived of anyone whom it pained you to lose.” Seneca reminds us that the loss of someone we love is an inevitable part of life. However, he suggests that we should take comfort in the fact that we are surrounded by many people who can help us in our journey. He notes that, “We should mingle with people in such a way that we always leave them feeling better for having seen us.” In other words, we should strive to be the kind of people who bring out the best in others.

Seneca also emphasizes the importance of spending time with people who inspire us. He writes, “Associate with people who are likely to improve you. Welcome those whom you yourself can improve. The process is a mutual one: men learn as they teach.” This idea of mutually beneficial relationships is critical for personal growth. When we surround ourselves with people who challenge and inspire us, we are more likely to push ourselves to be better.

The most important quote from this letter is, “Choose someone whose way of life as well as words, and whose very face as mirroring the character that lies behind it, have won your approval.” This quote highlights the importance of not only choosing good company but also recognizing what makes a person worthy of our time and attention. Seneca suggests that we should look beyond what people say and instead focus on how they live their lives. In doing so, we can find people who truly align with our values and who can help us grow in meaningful ways.

In today’s world, where we have access to a vast network of people through social media, it’s easy to feel like we’re surrounded by friends. However, the quality of those relationships may not always be fulfilling. Seneca reminds us that it’s not the number of people we surround ourselves with that matters, but the quality of those relationships. By choosing good company and surrounding ourselves with people who inspire us, we can foster meaningful connections that support our personal growth and wellbeing.

In conclusion, Seneca’s Letter #62 is a powerful reminder of the importance of choosing good company. The letter emphasizes that we should seek out people who bring out the best in us and who inspire us to be better. Furthermore, the letter reminds us to look beyond what people say and focus on how they live their lives. By doing so, we can find people who truly align with our values and who can help us grow in meaningful ways. Ultimately, Seneca’s message is one that is still relevant today, and it’s a reminder that the company we keep has a significant impact on our lives.