Tag: Epictetus

Look closely Know yourself Question your genius Do…

Look closely. Know yourself. Question your genius. Do nothing without God, whether He teaches you by making you great or greatly plaguing you. This is the philosopher’s way; to be flogged like an ass and to love those who beat him, to be the father and brother of all humility.

Epictetus

Happiness comes from understanding one basic principle Some…

Happiness comes from understanding one basic principle. Some things are within our control and some things are not. Our opinions, ambitions, desires, and aversions are in our control. We can change the contents of our inner character. Our body, wealth, fame, and social status are not in our control. They are external to us and not our concern.

Epictetus

Is it possible to live abundantly with nothing…

Is it possible to live abundantly with nothing, no home, a beggar without a country? Look, God has sent you someone to show you by his example that is possible. I have no home, country, wife, or children, but only earth and heaven and a simple blanket. But I am happy. I am not anxious. I am free. Look friends, how I have nothing and need nothing. See, I am a homeless, landless exile; and yet I live more free from troubles than all the rich and powerful.

Epictetus

Nothing truly stops you Nothing truly holds you…

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.

-Epictetus