Happiness and freedom begin with a clear understanding of one principle: Some things are within our control, and some things are not.

When you let go of your attention for a little while, do not think you may recover it whenever you please.

Contentment, as it is a short road and pleasant, has great delight and little trouble.

Give me by all means the shorter and nobler life, instead of one that is longer but of less account!

Be not swept off your feet by the vividness of the impression, but say, "Impression, wait for me a little. Let me see what you are and what you represent. Let me try you."

Asked, Who is the rich man? Epictetus replied, �He who is content.

Remember that you are an actor in a play, and that the Playwright chooses the manner of it: If he wants you to act a poor man you must act the part with all your powers; and so if your part be a cripple or a magistrate or a plain man. For your business is to act the character that is given you and act it well. The choice of the cast is Another's.