Epictetus, 50-120, Stoic Philosopher Quotes
Ruin and recovery are both from within.
It is no easy thing for a principle to become a man's own unless each day he maintains it and works it out in his life.
Do you know that disease and death must needs overtake us, no matter what we are doing?... What do you wish to be doing when it overtakes you? If you have anything better to be doing when you are so overtaken, get to work on that.
Nothing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.
Remember that you are an actor in a drama, of such a part as it may please the master to assign you, for a long time or for a little as he may choose. And if he will you to take the part of a poor man, or a cripple, or a ruler, or a private citizen, then may you act that part with grace!
First say to yourself what you would be;
and then do what you have to do.
If evil be spoken of you and it be true, correct yourself; if it be a lie, laugh at it.
Covetousness like jealousy, when it has taken root, never leaves a person but with their life. Cowardice is the dread of what will happen.
So, when the crisis is upon you, remember that God, like a trainer of wrestlers, has matched you with a tough and stalwart antagonist ... that you may prove a victor at the Great Games.
On the occasion of' every accident that befalls you... inquire what power you have for turning it to use.