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 unreasonable to think we can earn rewards without being willing to pay their true price. It is always our choice whether or not we wish to pay the price for life's rewards.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Rewards require effort and sacrifice; we must choose to invest in them.
This quote by Epictetus emphasizes the importance of recognizing that every reward in life comes with its own costs. It suggests that we must consciously decide whether we are willing to put in the necessary work and sacrifices to achieve the rewards we desire, highlighting the relationship between effort and outcome in our lives.
Themes
RewardsSacrificeChoiceEffortLife
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a motivational speech on the importance of hard work.
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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