Plain
Epictetus — The Slave

When a raven croaks and it seems like a bad omen, don't get carried away by how things appear. Think clearly and say, "This means nothing for me — not for my body, my stuff, my reputation, my kids, or my spouse. For me, every sign is a good sign if I choose to see it that way. Whatever happens, I can find a way to benefit from it."

The Enchiridion, Section 18 21 of 70
Calm Your Mind Freedom & Control
Epictetus — The Slave Original

When a raven happens to croak unluckily, be not overcome by appearances, but discriminate and say, “Nothing is portended to _me_, either to my paltry body, or property, or reputation, or children, or wife. But to _me_ all portents are lucky if I will. For whatsoever happens, it belongs to me to derive advantage therefrom.”

The Enchiridion, Section 18 21 of 70
Epictetus — The Slave

Remember that you are an actor in a play. The Author decides what kind of play it is — short or long. If the Author wants you to play a poor person, a disabled person, a leader, or an ordinary citizen, make sure you play that role well. This is your job — to act your given part well. Choosing the part belongs to someone else.

The Enchiridion, Section 17 20 of 70
Freedom & Control Doing The Right Thing
Epictetus — The Slave Original

Remember that you are an actor in a drama of such sort as the Author chooses—if short, then in a short one; if long, then in a long one. If it be his pleasure that you should enact a poor man, or a cripple, or a ruler, or a private citizen, see that you act it well. For this is your business—to act well the given part, but to choose it belongs to another.

The Enchiridion, Section 17 20 of 70
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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