Contemplation Through the Lens of Epicurean Philosophy
Epicureanism is about much more than savoring our meals. Epicurean philosophy calls us to engage the mind in rational thinking, but are we missing some important aspects of rational contemplation that might bring forward new insights toward living life more fully and pleasurably?
Here are some thoughts on various philosophical and life issues to contemplate and reflect on during the study of Epicurean philosophy. Note that I did not add question marks, because these are not quick questions to answer. These may be geared for a more advanced student of Epicurus, since those who are new to the philosophy may not have the background knowledge to fully engage through the lens and framing of the Epicurean philosophy (although this still may be of benefit).
Points for contemplation for the advanced Epicurean student:
-- The highest “good” (why and where this question comes from)
-- Your personal goals in life
-- Should you assign levels of importance (and increased time investment) to specific personal goals
-- What did Epicurus do
-- Is there a necessity for personal self-improvements for greater health and happiness and what might those be
-- What is true and how do we know it
-- Your place in the universe and “god's” place in the universe
-- Your personal thoughts and beliefs about “god”
-- Awareness of how incorrect ideas of “god” permeate society and how to deal with that
-- The importance of life, nature, and the understanding of the processes of nature
-- Contemplation of the causes of things, cycles of “beginning-middle-end”, and interdependently arising phenomenon
-- Nurturing gratitude, joy, and friendship
-- The "cause and effect" of what we say and do, and how it affects our enjoyment level (or lack of enjoyment) of other people, both in close relationships and in local community
-- What is love
-- How to grieve and how to celebrate
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And there could be more to contemplate besides these.
-----> Happy Contemplation! 
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