Plain
Epictetus — The Slave

Never say "I lost it." Say "I gave it back." Did your child die? You gave them back. Did your wife die? She was given back. Did someone take your property? That was given back too. "But the person who took it was evil." What does that matter to you? The one who gave it to you in the first place decided to take it back. What difference does it make whose hands were used? While you're allowed to have something, treat it like something that isn't really yours. Think of yourself as a traveler staying at an inn.

The Enchiridion, Section 11 14 of 70
Freedom & Control Death & Mortality
Epictetus — The Slave Original

Never say of anything, “I have lost it,” but, “I have restored it.” Has your child died? It is restored. Has your wife died? She is restored. Has your estate been taken away? That likewise is restored. “But it was a bad man who took it.” What is it to you by whose hands he who gave it has demanded it again? While he permits you to possess it, hold it as something not your own, as do travelers at an inn.

The Enchiridion, Section 11 14 of 70
Epictetus — The Slave

Whenever something happens to you, ask yourself: what strength do I have to deal with this? If you meet an attractive person, you'll need self-control. If you feel pain, you'll need courage. If someone insults you, you'll need patience. Make this a habit. Then life's events won't overwhelm you.

The Enchiridion, Section 10 13 of 70
Knowing Yourself Facing Hardship
Epictetus — The Slave Original

Upon every accident, remember to turn toward yourself and inquire what faculty you have for its use. If you encounter a handsome person, you will find continence the faculty needed; if pain, then fortitude; if reviling, then patience. And when thus habituated, the phenomena of existence will not overwhelm you.

The Enchiridion, Section 10 13 of 70
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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