EPICTETUS. DISCOURSES. Book ii. §5. ¶2.
Sunday
February 19
HOW do we act in a voyage? What is in my
power? To choose the pilot, the sailors, the
day, the time of day. Afterwards comes a storm.
What have I to care for? My part is performed.
The subject belongs to another, to the pilot. But
the ship is sinking: what then have I to do?
That which alone I can do; I am drowned, without
fear, without clamour, or accusing God; but
as one who knows that what is born must likewise
die. For I am not eternity, but a man; a part
of the whole, as an hour is of the day. I must
come like an hour, and like an hour must pass
away. What signifies it whether by drowning
or by a fever? For, in some way or other, pass
I must.
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Courage to face the inevitable with reason and peace. Do what you can to influence or change your circumstances, but when you have done all that you can, act with dignity.
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