Epictetus
“In each separate thing that you do, consider the matters which come first and those which follow after.”
“Two principles we should always have ready: that there is nothing good or evil save in the will; and that we are not to lead events, but to follow them.”
“Know first who you are; and then adorn yourself accordingly.”
“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.””
“It is impossible for anyone to begin to learn that which he thinks he already knows.”
“Appearances to the mind are of four kinds: things either are as they appear; or they neither are, nor appear to be; or they are, and do not appear to be; or they are not, and yet appear to be.”
“When you close your doors, and make darkness within, remember never to say that you are alone; for you are not alone; God is within, and your Genius is within.”
“In theory there is nothing to hinder our following what we are taught; but in life there are many things to draw us aside.”
“Practice yourself, for heaven's sake, in little things; and thence proceed to greater.”
“It is difficulties that show what men are.”
“If a person gave your body to a passer-by, you would be angry; yet you entrust your mind to any who happens to praise or blame you.”
“The beginning of philosophy is the consciousness of our own weakness and inability.”
“Practice yourself, for heaven’s sake, in little things; and from these proceed to greater.”
“To accuse others for one’s own misfortunes is a sign of want of education; to accuse oneself shows education has begun.”
“Freedom is the right use of reason.”
“Attach yourself to what is spiritually better, regardless of what people think.”
“If you wish to be good, first believe that you are bad.”
“Do not desire that things happen as you wish, but wish them to happen as they do.”
“Let silence be your general rule; or say only what is necessary and in few words.”
“When you are delighted with anything, consider what sort of thing it is that you are delighted with.”