Discourses, Of Tranquillity (freedom from Perturbation)

Epictetus — The Slave

Who can force you to avoid what you don't think you should avoid? But you might say, "The judge will rule against me in something terrible." Fine, but can the judge also force you to suffer while you try to avoid it? No. When going after things and avoiding things are under your control, what else matters? Let this be your opening statement, your story, your proof, your victory, your closing argument, your applause.

Epictetus — The Slave Original

who shall compel you to avoid what you do not think fit to avoid? But what do you say? The judge will determine against you something that appears formidable; but that you should also suffer in trying to avoid it, how can he do that? When then the pursuit of objects and the avoiding of them are in your power, what else do you care for? Let this be your preface, this your narrative, this your confirmation, this your victory, this your peroration, this your applause (or the approbation which you will receive).