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
The world turns aside to let any man pass who knows where he is going.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Knowing your purpose enables you to navigate life effectively and gain respect.
This quote by Epictetus emphasizes the importance of having a clear sense of direction and purpose in life. When a person is confident about their goals and their path, they attract the support and respect of others, as they show determination and clarity that allows them to overcome obstacles and move forward.
Themes
PurposeDirectionConfidenceSuccessRespect
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech, saying this quote can inspire the audience to find their own path.
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
Similar quotes
For some are in the habit of carrying about the name in wicked guile, while they still practice things unworthy of God. You must flee these as you would wild beasts. For they are ravening dogs, who bite secretly, against whom you must be on your guard, since they are men who can scarcely be cured.
Ignatius Of AntiochRead
Just when the truth about life sinks in, His truth starts to surface. He takes us by the hand and dares us not to sweep the facts under the rug but to confront them with him at our side.
Max LucadoRead
You're no help," he told the lime. This was unfair. It was only a lime; there was nothing special about it at all. It was doing the best it could.
Neil GaimanRead
Every (stressful thought) is a variation on a single theme: This shouldn't be happening. I shouldn't be having this experience. God is unjust. Life isn't fair.
Byron KatieRead
If we judge ourselves only by our aspirations and everyone else only their conduct we shall soon reach a very false conclusion.
Calvin CoolidgeRead
I only wish I could write with both hands, so as not to forget one thing while I am saying another.
Teresa Of AvilaRead