On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.
Epictetus The Discourses
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The quote from Epictetus emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in the face of adversity. When accidents or challenges occur, instead of simply reacting, it encourages individuals to pause and examine their own abilities and potential responses. This approach fosters a sense of personal agency, suggesting that we have the power to shape our circumstances, regardless of the situation presented to us.

By turning inward and assessing our strengths, we can find constructive ways to use challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of viewing difficulties solely as setbacks, Epictetus advocates for a mindset that seeks to derive lessons and benefits from every incident. This proactive attitude can lead to resilience and a more fulfilling life, where we actively engage with our experiences and learn to harness their value.

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Is then the fruit of a fig-tree not perfect suddenly and in one hour, and would you possess the fruit of a man's mind in so short a time and so easily?
Epictetus The Discourses
Is then the fruit of a fig-tree not perfect suddenly and in one hour, and would you possess the fruit of a man's mind in so short a time and so easily?
The philosopher's school, ye men, is a surgery: you ought not to go out of it with pleasure, but with pain. For you are not in sound health when you enter.
Epictetus The Discourses
The philosopher's school, ye men, is a surgery: you ought not to go out of it with pleasure, but with pain. For you are not in sound health when you enter.
What would have become of Hercules do you think if there had been no lion, hydra, stag or boar - and no savage criminals to rid the world of? What would he have done in the absence of such challenges? Obviously he would have just rolled over in bed and gone back to sleep. So by snoring his life away in luxury and comfort he never would have developed into the mighty Hercules. And even if he had, what good would it have done him? What would have been the use of those arms, that physique, and that noble soul, without crises or conditions to stir into him action?
Epictetus The Discourses
What would have become of Hercules do you think if there had been no lion, hydra, stag or boar - and no savage criminals to rid the world of? What would he have done in the absence of such challenges? Obviously he would have just rolled over in bed and gone back to sleep. So by snoring his life away in luxury and comfort he never would have developed into the mighty Hercules. And even if he had, what good would it have done him? What would have been the use of those arms, that physique, and that noble soul, without crises or conditions to stir into him action?
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God save me from fools with a little philosophy-no one is more difficult to reach.
Epictetus The Discourses
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We must not believe the many, who say that only free people ought to be educated, but we should rather believe the philosophers who say that only the educated are free.
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