Epictetus

If I was a nightingale I would sing like a nightingale; if a swan, like a swan. But since I am a rational creature my role is to praise God.

Epictetus

If thy brother wrongs thee, remember not so much his wrong-doing, but more than ever that he is thy brother.

Epictetus

If virtue promises happiness, prosperity and peace, then progress in virtue is progress in each of these for to whatever point the perfection of anything brings us, progress is always an approach toward it.

Epictetus

If you can make music with someone you don’t need words. If you wish to be a writer, write.

Epictetus

If you desire to be good, begin by believing that you are wicked.

Epictetus

If you have anything better to be doing when death overtakes you, get to work on that.

Epictetus

If you have assumed a character above your strength, you have both acted in this matter in an unbecoming way, and you have neglected that which you might have fulfilled.

Epictetus

If you have assumed a character beyond your strength, you have both played a poor figure in that, and neglected one that is within your powers.

Epictetus

If you must be affected by other people’s misfortunes, show them pity instead of contempt. Drop this readiness to hate and take offence.

Epictetus

If you seek truth you will not seek victory by dishonorable means, and if you find truth you will become invincible.

Epictetus