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
Remember that you are an actor in a play, and that the Playwright chooses the manner of it: If he wants you to act a poor man you must act the part with all your powers; and so if your part be a cripple or a magistrate or a plain man. For your business is to act the character that is given you and act it well. The choice of the cast is Another's.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Accept your circumstances and perform your role to the best of your ability.
This quote by Epictetus emphasizes the significance of accepting the roles we are given in life, whether they seem advantageous or disadvantageous. It suggests that although we may not have control over our circumstances, we have the power to choose how we fulfill our roles and responsibilities, thereby highlighting the importance of acting with integrity and dedication regardless of our situation.
Themes
AcceptanceRoleCircumstancesIntegrityDedication
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming obstacles.
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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