We do not choose our own parts in life, and have nothing to do with those parts. Our duty is confined to playing them well.
EpictetusGod has entrusted me with myself. No man is free who is not master of himself. A man should so live that his happiness shall depend as little as possible on external things. The world turns aside to let any man pass who knows where he is going.
EpictetusFreedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire.
EpictetusAnd have you not received faculties which will enable you to bear all that happens to you? Have you not received greatness of spirit? Have you not received courage? Have you not received endurance?
EpictetusHappiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some things are within our control, and some things are not. It is only after you have faced up to this fundamental rule and learned to distinguish between what you can and can't control that inner tranquility and outer effectiveness become possible.
Epictetus