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
It is the nature of the wise to resist pleasures, but the foolish to be a slave to them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wise individuals prioritize self-control over immediate pleasures, while foolish ones succumb to them.
This quote by Epictetus highlights the difference in behavior between wise and foolish individuals regarding the pursuit of pleasures. Those who are wise recognize that true fulfillment comes from self-discipline and resisting fleeting temptations, while the foolish allow themselves to be dominated by their desires, leading to a lack of control and ultimately, dissatisfaction.
Themes
WisdomSelf-ControlPleasureDisciplineFoolishness
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth.
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
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I do not know of any, excepting the unpardonable sin, that is greater than the sin of ingratitude.
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It is better to disappoint people with the truth than to appease them with a lie.
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We must find a way to replace yearning for what life has withheld from us with gratitude for what we have been given.
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If you permit your thoughts to dwell on evil you yourself will become ugly. Look only for the good in everything so you absorb the quality of beauty.
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