For everything you encounter, think about where it came from, what it's made of, and what it will become. Ask yourself what it will be like after it changes. Remember that nothing is truly harmed by changing.
Of everything thou must consider from whence it came, of what things it doth consist, and into what it will be changed: what will be the nature of it, or what it will be like unto when it is changed; and that it can suffer no hurt by this change.
Remember that this careful attention of yours will only last a little while, and then your life will end. What could stop you from handling all these things well? If they align with nature, be glad about them and let them please you. But if they go against nature, look for what fits your own nature. Whether it brings you honor or not, move quickly to reach it. No one should be blamed for seeking their own good and happiness.
Remembering moreover, that this care and circumspection of thine, is to continue but for a while, and then thy life will be at an end. And what should hinder, but that thou mayest do well with all these things? For if they be according to nature, rejoice in them, and let them be pleasing and acceptable unto thee. But if they be against nature, seek thou that which is according to thine own nature, and whether it be for thy credit or no, use all possible speed for the attainment of it: for no man ought to be blamed, for seeking his own good and happiness.