It is better to die of hunger having lived without grief and fear, than to live with a troubled spirit, amid abundance - Epictetus

Even as the Sun doth not wait for prayers and incantations to rise, but shines forth and is welcomed by all: so thou also wait not for clapping of hands and shouts and praise to do thy duty; nay, do good of thine own accord, and thou wilt be loved like the Sun.

Whenever externals are more important to you than your own integrity, then be prepared to serve them the remainder of your life.

Do not get too attached to life for it is like a sailor's leave on the shore and at any time, the captain may sound the horn, calling you back to eternal darkness.