Quote of the day

From The Enchiridion by Epictetus:

Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a word, whatever are our own actions. Things not in our control are body, property, reputation, command, and, in one word, whatever are not our own actions.

The things in our control are by nature free, unrestrained, unhindered; but those not in our control are weak, slavish, restrained, belonging to others. Remember, then, that if you suppose that things which are slavish by nature are also free, and that what belongs to others is your own, then you will be hindered. You will lament, you will be disturbed, and you will find fault both with gods and men. But if you suppose that only to be your own which is your own, and what belongs to others such as it really is, then no one will ever compel you or restrain you. Further, you will find fault with no one or accuse no one. You will do nothing against your will. No one will hurt you, you will have no enemies, and you will not be harmed. 

This is the opening line of the text and demonstrates what a remarkable teacher Epictetus was, as this so succinctly cuts to the core bedrock principle of Stoicism. That he was a Roman slave (his true name is unknown, epictetus translates to "acquired one") who gained his freedom and then through his teaching (what we have of his is essentially lecture notes compiled by his student Arrian) was able to influence generations for thousands of years (and counting) makes it even more impressive and inspiring.