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
Men are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our perceptions and interpretations of events influence our emotional responses more than the events themselves.
This quote by Epictetus highlights the idea that it is not the actual events or circumstances that cause distress or discomfort in our lives, but rather our subjective opinions and judgments about those events. By changing our interpretations, we can change our emotional experiences, illustrating the power of mindset and perspective in shaping our reality.
Themes
PerceptionMindsetOpinionDisturbanceReaction
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about emotional resilience, this quote can be used to emphasize the importance of perspective.
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
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
Attach yourself to what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Hold to your true aspirations no matter what is going on around you.
EpictetusRead
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I am convinced that the deepest desire within each of us is to be liberated from the controlling influences of our own psychic madness or patterns of fear. All other things—the disdain of ordinary life, the need to control others rather than be controlled, the craving for material goods as a means of security and protection against the winds of chaos—are external props that serve as substitutes for the real battle, which is the one waged within the individual soul.
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