Ataraxia is ancient Greek term meaning “the state of being free from stress or worry”.

Yeah. Who would want that.

Actually, I would.

Among the things that make life stressful are competitions. I am forever finding myself in competitions that I don’t remember entering.

Me:… and then they told me the back spasms were actually caused by my hip. It’s made a world of difference since…

Him: Oh, yeah? You think that hurts? When I was six, my father made me swallow an accordion. If I have to run, it sounds like the Lawrence Welk show.

Me: Umm…

Him: I’ve lived with this pain my WHOLE LIFE and you want to complain about your little feeble back spasms?

Me: I guess not.

It turns out back spasms don’t hurt.

Another friend and I were talking and it turns out I don’t really like music, either…

Her: How many songs do you know all the lyrics to?

Me: I don’t know… maybe 6 thousand?

Her: I know the words to one hundred and forty-seven thousand songs! You see, I REALLY like music…

Me: Sigh.

A stress free life would be one where conversations didn’t feel like competitions.

But for now, I’m merely seeking ataraxia.