Epictetus
~ 50 - 135
Epictetus was a Greek philosopher born around 50 AD. He was known for his teachings on Stoicism, emphasizing personal ethics, self-control, and resilience in the face of adversity. Epictetus's lectures were compiled by his student Arrian into the "Discourses," which have had a lasting impact on Western philosophy.
Peace is achieved not by avoiding conflict, but by facing it wisely.
Not every difficult and dangerous thing is suitable for training, but only that which is conducive to success in achieving the object of our effort.
There is only one way to happiness and that is to cease worrying about things which are beyond the power of our will.
You become what you give your attention to.
If virtue promises happiness, prosperity and peace, then progress in virtue is progress in each of these for to whatever point the perfection of anything brings us, progress is always an approach toward it.
Circumstances don't make the man, they only reveal him to himself.
If you are ever tempted to look for outside approval, realize that you have compromised your integrity. If you need a witness, be your own.
When you are offended at any man's fault, turn to yourself and study your own failings. Then you will forget your anger.
Imagine for yourself a character, a model personality, whose example you determine to follow, in private as well as in public.
Be careful to leave your sons well instructed rather than rich, for the hopes of the instructed are better than the wealth of the ignorant.
The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.
Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants.
How long are you going to wait before you demand the best for yourself?