Trip #501 Virginia Avenue, Duquesne Heights, Pittsburgh took place on September 24, 2020, and was published on October 14, 2020.
History has erroneously portrayed the Stoic philosophers as indifferent to emotions. In reality, they were less concerned about maintaining a “stiff upper lip” and more focused on how our unchecked desires and aversions cause problems in everyday life. Consider this bit of Stoic wisdom, “Humans are not influenced by events but rather the view they take on events.” Sentiments similar to this can be found in spiritual traditions and well-being practices the world over and illustrate why a singular event can provoke various responses. Understanding the role perception plays in behavior helps us develop compassion toward others and ourselves and puts us in-tune with our emotions, the modern world, and an ancient tradition that sought to understand both. Just goes to show you can be a Stoic without being stoic!
Field Notes: This wooden flight on Virginia Avenue is a little rickety in places but it’s still so pleasant. The houses along it are in good shape and appear to be occupied. It’s a quiet and pleasant neighborhood!
See the Risograph print of this photo and story in the Mis.Steps Shop.
Want to visit these stairs? You can locate them on the Pittsburgh City Steps Plan website!
Be a good neighbor! Have you visited these stairs and found them in poor condition or that illegal dumping (large items like tires, old furniture, and construction debris) and trash were abundant in the area? There are two things you can do to take action and make our city steps cleaner and safer for everyone! First, grab a photo if you can, and submit a report to Pittsburgh 311. All problems, both broken stairs, and railings, as well as trash and dumping, should be reported to the city. You can easily do this online or by calling.
