From Letters from a stoic, letter CXIV
“For those who follow nature everything is easy and straightforward, whereas for those who fight against her life is just like rowing against the stream”
Discussion
This is also the topic of my favorite CS Lewis essay, “Men Without Chests.” He argues that there is an ultimate order (Tao), and aligning our behaviors to it leads to fulfillment and flourishing.
I can see that, both perspectives are trying to answer how do we master ourselves and peace. I think even there was some study years ago on trying to find the most happiest person, and from what I remember the study landed on some monk in the world
my favourite image from the Tao is the Taoist Butcher who never needs to sharpen his knives because he always cuts where it is ready to part