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
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote warns against the harm caused by flatterers to the living, similar to how crows consume the dead.
Epictetus presents a stark contrast between the natural behavior of crows, which pick at the eyes of the deceased when they no longer need them, and the destructive influence of flatterers on the living. While crows act in accordance with survival instincts, flatterers corrupt the soul and vision of those still alive, illustrating the moral decay that can result from insincere praise and manipulation. This quote reflects deep insights into human relationships and the importance of sincerity over superficial admiration.
Themes
FlatteryDeceitWisdomSincerityRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
You could use this quote in a speech about the importance of authentic relationships.
More from Epictetus
All quotes βMen are disturbed not by the things that happen, but by their opinion of the things that happen.
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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.
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The people have a right to the truth as they have a right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
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Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things, and thence proceed to greater.
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Attach yourself to what is spiritually superior, regardless of what other people think or do. Hold to your true aspirations no matter what is going on around you.
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