When you let go of your attention for a little while, do not think you may recover it whenever you please.
EpictetusIf you do not wish to be prone to anger, do not feed the habit; give it nothing which may tend to its increase.
EpictetusIt is difficulties that show what men are. For the future, in case of any difficulty, remember that God, like a gymnastic trainer, has pitted you against a rough antagonist. For what end? That you may be an Olympic conqueror; and this cannot be without toil.
EpictetusAnd 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.
Epictetus