Stalking Grocery Store Aisles With My Philosopher Friends
Ancient Wisdom For Today’s Sky High Prices
Yesterday while wandering down the aisles of a local grocery store here in Fort Collins, a basket in one hand and the Apple Pay app on my phone in the other, I couldn't help but notice that the price of my favorite foods had reached astronomical heights.
As a humble seeker of both bargains and wisdom, I wondered what ancient philosophers would make of this modern-day tribulation. In other words, what would Lao Tzu, Mencius, Seneca, and Epicurus say about the sky-high cost of a simple loaf of bread?
So here are my thoughts, pure conjecture of course based on the study of these figures.
Lao Tzu, strolling alongside me with an ethereal calm, would likely gaze at the soaring prices and remind me gently, "The journey of a thousand meals begins with a single step. And sometimes, my dear friend, that step is away from the organic aisle."
He'd likely steer me towards the bulk section, his eyes twinkling with the mirth of ancient secrets. "Why buy a small bag of rice for a fortune when a mountain of it awaits at a fraction of the cost?" he'd muse, scooping grains into a paper bag in the bulk food section. "True contentment comes not from having everything, but from needing less."
Mencius, on the other hand, might have a more fiery approach. Observing the price tags, he'd probably launch into a passionate discourse on the innate goodness of people but the corruptive force of unchecked market pricing. "My friend," he'd exclaim, gesturing broadly at a $10 carton of eggs, "the people must be fed affordably to cultivate their better natures!"
He'd then likely suggest that we attend a weekend farmers market advocating for the support of local growers. "Feed the body and the community, and your spirit will grow," he'd declare, picking up a locally grown apple and handing it to me with a lighthearted zeal.
Seneca, stoic and composed amidst the price tags fit for emperors, would offer a lesson in the virtue of indifference to external circumstances. "What need do you have for these luxuries?" he'd question, scrutinizing a $15 jar of artisanal peanut butter. "One can live a rich life with simple meals. Let us find sustenance that suffices for health and little else."
He'd advise me to practice moderation, perhaps suggesting a humble loaf of whole grain bread and a simple pot of beans—foods that nourish without emptying one's wallet.
Epicurus, the philosopher of pleasure, would have a slightly different take, balancing simple joys with practical wisdom. "My friend," he'd chuckle, eyeing the expensive cheeses, "pleasure does not require extravagance. Let us find the foods that bring joy without despair upon seeing the bill."
He'd guide me towards seasonal produce and bulk nuts, explaining, "These are the true delights—fresh, natural, and moderately priced. Feast on these, and your pleasure will be as long-lasting as your savings."
Together, as we navigated the labyrinth of modern commerce, my philosophical entourage would weave their wisdom through the racks of overpriced goods.
Lao Tzu would remind me to embrace simplicity and flow around the obstacles of high costs like water around rocks.
Mencius would encourage ethical choices that support the larger community, suggesting items that nurture both the body and the societal fabric.
Seneca would teach resilience in the face of adversity, finding value in austerity and strength in endurance. Epicurus would seek a balance, ensuring that the pursuit of pleasure does not lead to financial ruin.
As I approach the checkout lane, their combined wisdom echoing in my mind, I realized that perhaps the greatest lesson in these inflationary times is this: true wealth lies not in the abundance of possessions but in the richness of wisdom applied.
With a basket filled only with what was necessary and joyous, I could smile at the total, knowing that my ancient advisors had steered me well through the tempest of modern markets. As I left the store, wallet a bit lighter but spirit substantially enriched, I couldn't help but think that perhaps this shopping trip was worth every penny.
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This was such a clever, enjoyable read this morning! Made me laugh out loud! And also filled with practical wisdom. As prices rise, our family tries to continue upholding our values through shopping at our local coop from bulk bins and local organic produce as much as we can. We have had to pare off packaged and prepared food like chips and more snacky food, alcohol or special drinks, etc. and save those for a special occasion. It has made me even more grateful for our food and abundance but it has been so hard to cope with rising prices. Thank you for sharing a witty article 😄 I’m a relatively new reader and I am enjoying your Substack very much!
Clever.