Never say of anything I have lost it, only say that I have given it back.

And be silent for the most part, or else make only the most necessary remarks, and express these in few words. But rarely, and when occasion requires you to talk, talk, indeed, but about no ordinary topics. Do not talk about gladiators, or horseraces, or athletes, or things to eat or drink - topics that arise on all occasions; but above all, do not talk about people, either blaming, or praising, or comparing them.

If you think you control things that are in the control of others, you will lament. You will be disturbed and you will blame both gods and men.

If one oversteps the bounds of moderation, the greatest pleasures cease to please.

To a reasonable creature, that alone is insupportable which is unreasonable; but everything reasonable may be supported.

Whoever then wishes to be free, let him neither wish for anything nor avoid anything which depends on others: if he does not observe this rule, he must be a slave.

Seek not that the things which happen should happen as you wish; but wish the things which happen to be as they are, and you will have a tranquil flow of life.