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
Appear to know only this--never to fail nor fall.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong and unwavering position in life without showing weakness or defeat.
Epictetus, a Stoic philosopher, encourages individuals to adopt a mindset of resilience and strength. By suggesting that one should 'appear to know only this,' he highlights the power of perception and how it can shape our reality. Living with the conviction of never failing or falling empowers us to face challenges with confidence and composure, reflecting a profound understanding of self-discipline and emotional fortitude.
Themes
StrengthResilienceStoicismPerceptionConfidence
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speaker might use this quote during a talk on overcoming adversity.
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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Nothing astonishes men so much as common sense and plain dealing.
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Give up, renounce the world. Now we are like dogs strayed into a kitchen and eating a piece of meat, looking round in fear lest at any moment some one may come and drive them out. Instead of that, be a king and know you own the world. This never comes until you give it up and it ceases to bind. Give up mentally, if you do not physically. Give up from the heart of your hearts
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I know what my limitations are as an actor, but my strength is putting myself into a well-written part. When I get in trouble is when I have to fix it, or when I have to carry it on personality.
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There lies before us, if we choose, continual progress in happiness, knowledge and wisdom. Shall we instead choose death, because we cannot forget our quarrels? I appeal as a human being to human beings; remember your humanity, and forget the rest.
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The truths that I know best I have learned on my knees. I never know a thing well, till it is burned into my heart by prayer.
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