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
Difficulties are things that show a person what they are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Difficulties reveal a person's true character and abilities.
This quote by Epictetus suggests that challenges and hardships serve as a mirror, reflecting an individual's true nature and strength. It implies that how one responds to difficulties can reveal deeper personal qualities and resilience that may not be apparent in easy times.
Themes
DifficultiesCharacterChallengesResilienceTrials
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational talk about overcoming life's challenges.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βLearn 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
Similar quotes
Greatness lies not in being strong, but in the right use of strength.
Henry Ward BeecherRead
You always want to quit while you are ahead. You don't want to be like a fighter who stays too long in the ring until you're not performing at your best.
Clint EastwoodRead
The lucky person passes for a genius.
EuripidesRead
Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see.
Arthur SchopenhauerRead
Beware of endeavoring to become a great man in a hurry. One such attempt in ten thousand may succeed. These are fearful odds.
Benjamin DisraeliRead
The Buddha taught that we're not actually in control, which is a pretty scary idea. But when you let things be as they are, you will be a much happier, more balanced, compassionate person.
Pema ChodronRead