Motivation/Inspiration
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Mullethead and Hambone sat across from each other in a booth at their favorite Tex-Mex joint.
The aroma of sizzling fajitas hung heavy in the air. It was a blend of sizzling onions and peppers. These danced with the scent of smoky chipotle. Meat-lover Mullethead had already munched half his plate, while Hambone dutifully delighted in his delicate puffy tacos. The two are discussing New Year’s intentions, not resolutions.
Hambone: (Chewing thoughtfully) You know, Mullethead, I was thinking about the new year.
Mullethead: (Swallowing a large bite) New Year’s? Wow man, time for that already huh?
Hambone: I know, I know. Yes, and I’m thinking about New Year’s intentions, not resolutions. Lately, I’ve been reading a lot about Stoicism, you know, and how it differs from Christian philosophy. Both philosophies are great inspiration for intentions, or resolutions, if you must.
Mullethead: What’s the difference?
Interested in learning more about Stoicism? You’ll want to get our favorite: The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living
Another great reader, from the Christian perspective, a favorite as well: Around the Year with Emmet Fox: A Book of Daily Readings
Stoicism and Christianity are distinct philosophical and moral systems.
Hambone: Stoicism, originating in ancient Greece, focuses on living by nature and reason. It emphasizes virtues like self-control, courage, and wisdom. Stoicism also advocates for personal virtue and the acceptance of what can’t be changed. Stoics do not center their philosophy on a personal deity. They believe in a rational universe as their God, governed by natural laws.
Christianity, based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizes belief in one personal God. It also centers around the concepts of salvation and grace. It focuses on love, compassion, and moral righteousness. The ethical teachings of Jesus advocate for love towards others, including enemies. Christianity focuses on the afterlife, teaching about heaven and hell and the importance of faith in achieving salvation.
In a nutshell, Stoicism emphasizes rationality and personal virtue. It doesn’t focus on a personal god or detailed afterlife. Christianity focuses on a relationship with God. It centers on the teachings of Jesus. It also emphasizes the concepts of salvation and eternal life.
Many virtues and values are similar. Christianity teaches that God, the supreme being, created and is responsible for the universe.
Okay, I think I got you now
Mullethead: (Raising an eyebrow) Stoicism? You mean like, “Embrace the suck” and all that?
Hambone: (Chuckles) Somewhat, but that’s closer to Christianity. It’s more like, focus on what you can control. Cultivate virtue and find wisdom in adversity.
Mullethead: Sounds… preachy.
Hambone: Hey, hear me out. It is a good way to approach the new year. Instead of making those tired resolutions we always break, we set some… intentions.
Mullethead: Intentions? What’s the difference?
Hambone: Well, resolutions are like… demands. “I WILL lose 20 pounds!” “I WILL run a marathon!” But intentions are more about cultivating habits and virtues.
Mullethead: Like what? Be a better… husband?
Hambone: (Nodding) That’s a good start. Or, maybe, “Cultivate patience.” Or “Practice gratitude.”
Mullethead: (Scoffs) Gratitude? I’m already grateful. I got a beautiful wife, a good job, this delicious food… what more could a man ask for?
Hambone: (Smiling) Exactly. But it’s about consciously appreciating the good things in life, you know? Finding joy in the small moments.
Mullethead: Alright, alright, alright, I’m game. Let’s see… how about… “Master the art of the perfect brisket.”
Hambone: (Laughing) Now that’s an intention I can get behind. My turn. “Embrace silence.” I spend all day surrounded by noise—the internet, the city, even Hillary’s singing in the shower.
Mullethead: (Wryly) Your wife’s singing? That’s a test of patience, alright.
Hambone: (Ignoring him) I want to learn to appreciate the quiet moments, you know? Meditate, maybe. Or just sit on the porch and listen to the crickets.
Mullethead: Sounds… peaceful.
More Brainstorming
The two friends continued their brainstorming session. It was a lively exchange of ideas. The clinking of glasses and the occasional playful jab punctuated their discussion.
Mullethead: How about… “Help at least one person in need each week”?
Hambone: That’s a good one. We volunteer at a soup kitchen, or help an older neighbor with their yard work.
Mullethead: Or maybe donate our old clothes to that homeless shelter downtown.
Hambone: (Nodding) We can start a food drive for the families affected by that recent flood.
Mullethead: You know, I like this “intentions” thing. It feels… more achievable—less pressure.
Hambone: Exactly. It’s about progress, not perfection.
Mullethead: Alright, here’s another one: “Learn to play the guitar.”
Hambone: (Eyes widening) You? Play the guitar?
Mullethead: Hey, I’m not saying I’ll be the next Eric Clapton. It’d be cool to learn a few chords, you know? Maybe even join your band someday.
Hambone: (Chuckles) You in my band? You’re not serious.
Mullethead: (Feigning offense) Hey! I’m a natural! I’ve got rhythm.
Hambone: (Shaking his head) You can definitely dance but the guitar? We’ll see about that. My turn. “Cultivate self-awareness.”
Mullethead: Self-awareness? What does that even mean?
What Does That Mean?
Hambone: It means paying attention to your thoughts and emotions, you know? Recognizing when you’re getting stressed or angry, and learning to manage those feelings.
Mullethead: Sounds complicated.
Hambone: It is. But it’s also really important. It helps you understand yourself better and build stronger relationships.
As the afternoon wore on, the two friends continued to brainstorm, their list growing longer and more ambitious.
Mullethead: How about… “Forgive more easily”?
Hambone: That’s a good one. I tend to hold onto grudges a little too long.
Mullethead: Me too. But I’ve learned that holding onto anger only hurts me in the end.
Hambone: So learning to forgive naturally results in fewer, or no grudges.
Mullethead: I’m in.
Hambone: Alright, here’s my last one: “Embrace the unknown.”
Mullethead: Embrace the unknown? What does that even mean?
Hambone: It means stepping outside of your comfort zone, trying new things, and being open to new experiences.
Mullethead: Like… goat yoga?
Hambone: (Laughing) Only if we’re having cabrito tacos after. Or…try that new Thai restaurant downtown. Or go on a hiking trip we’ve never been on before.
Mullethead: (Grinning) Now you’re talking.
Farwell Dear Friends
As they finished their lunch and prepared to leave, Mullethead and Hambone felt a renewed sense of purpose. They had set their intentions for the new year. These were not rigid resolutions but guiding principles. This approach would help them live more meaningful lives.
So, there you have it. Mullethead and Hambone’s New Year’s intentions. What are yours? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Want to catch up on the hilarious adventures of Mullethead and Hambone? Check out our past posts for more laughs, local insights, and maybe even a few life lessons. Stay tuned for upcoming posts as we embark on new adventures and share more of our quirky perspectives on life.
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