Epictetus advises us to maintain a composed and patient demeanor, as if we were attending a formal symposium. When faced with opportunities, such as food or drink, we should accept them gracefully if they come our way but refrain from forcefully reaching for them if they haven't yet arrived. This principle extends to our desires for children, wealth, and status; by practicing patience and self-restraint, we align ourselves closer to a virtuous life.

Furthermore, Epictetus suggests that true wisdom lies in the ability to decline these worldly pleasures even when they are readily available. By doing so, we not only gain a deeper understanding of life's transient nature but also associate ourselves with the divine. This philosophy, exemplified by thinkers like Diogenes and Heraclitus, emphasizes the power of moderation and the worthiness of inner strength over material gain.