On the occasion of every accident (event) that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use. If yo… - Epictetus

On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.

On the occasion of every accident (event) that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.

Remember that you must behave as at a banquet. Is anything brought round to you? Put out your hand and take a moderate share. Does it pass by you? Do not stop it. Is it not yet come? Do not yearn in desire toward it, but wait till it reaches you. So with regard to children, wife, office, riches; and you will some time or other be worthy to feast with the gods. And if you do not so much as take the things which are set before you, but are able even to forego them, then you will not only be worthy to feast with the gods, but to rule with them also.

Every circumstance comes with two handles, which one of which you can hold it, while with the other conditions are insupportable.

Take the example of a public speaker. He is confident that he has written a good speech, he has committed the thing to memory, and can deliver it smoothly. Still he agonizes, [6] because it’s not enough for him to be competent, he also hungers for the crowd’s approval.