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
Don’t consent to be hurt and you won’t be hurt – this is a choice over which you have control
Interpretation
What this quote means
You have the power to choose how you respond to pain and suffering.
Epictetus emphasizes the importance of personal agency in the face of hurt and suffering. He suggests that by choosing not to consent to emotional or psychological pain, individuals can take control of their own well-being and maintain a sense of inner peace, highlighting the significance of mindset and resilience in facing life's challenges.
Themes
ControlMindsetChoiceSufferingResilience
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming adversity.
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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