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
Think of what you have rather than of what you lack. Of the things you have, select the best and then reflect how eagerly you would have sought them if you did not have them.
Marcus AureliusRead
Beware of the man who works hard to learn something, learns it, and finds himself no wiser than before.
Kurt VonnegutRead
The power of imagination makes us infinite.
John MuirRead
The true definition of madness is repeating the same action, over and over, hoping for a different result.
Albert EinsteinRead
Who can estimate the real wealth that inheres in a fine character. . . . How base and mean money and huge estates look in comparison. All other things fade before it. Its touch is like magic to win friendship, influence, power. Can you afford to chill, to discourage, to crush out of your life this sweet, sensitive plant, which would flower in your nature and give added glory to your life, for the sake of a few dollars, a little questionable fame?
Orison Swett MardenRead
When we get too caught up in the busyness of the world, we lose connection with one another - and ourselves.
Jack KornfieldRead