Consider first the nature of the business in hand; then examine thy own nature, whether thou hast strength to undertake it.

It is my business, to manage carefully and dexterously whatever happens

Be free from grief not through insensibility like the irrational animals, nor through want of thought like the foolish, but like a man of virtue by having reason as the consolation of grief.

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

Nothing truly stops you. Nothing truly holds you back. For your own will is always within your control. Sickness may challenge your body. But are you merely your body? Lameness may impede your legs. But you are not merely your legs. Your will is bigger than your legs. Your will needn't be affected by an incident unless you let it.

Ask yourself, "How are my thoughts, words and deeds affecting my friends, my spouse, my neighbour, my child, my employer, my subordinates, my fellow citizens?"

All philosophy lies in two words, sustain and abstain.