Crows pick out the eyes of the dead, when the dead have no longer need of them; but flatterers mar the soul of the living, and her eyes they blind.
EpictetusRead
If anyone tells you that a certain person speaks ill of you, do not make excuses about what is said of you but answer, "He was ignorant of my other faults, else he would not have mentioned these alone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the idea that criticism often overlooks our broader character flaws.
Epictetus suggests that when someone speaks negatively about us, rather than defend ourselves or excuse our faults, we should recognize that their view is limited. Their criticism reveals their ignorance of the entirety of our being, as they only highlight what they perceive, neglecting the complexity of our character and other shortcomings.
Themes
CriticismIgnoranceCharacterSelf-Awareness
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about resilience, this quote can be used to encourage someone to rise above negative feedback.
More from Epictetus
All quotes →Learn to distinguish what you can and can't control. Within our control are our own opinions, aspirations, desires and the things that repel us. They are directly subject to our influence.
EpictetusRead
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
EpictetusRead
Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.
EpictetusRead
The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
EpictetusRead
Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
EpictetusRead
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