Discourses, Fragments, Handbook

by Epictetus

Well then, is it possible to flee from human society? And how could that be possible for us? Is it possible to change people, then, if we do associate with them? And who has granted me such a power? [19] What remains to be done, then; what method can we discover to apply in dealing with them? A method that will ensure that, while they for their part act as they think fit, we for our part will remain nonetheless in accord with nature. [20] But you’re weak-spirited and discontented, and if you’re alone, you call it desolation, and if you’re in the company of others, you call them cheats and robbers, and you find fault even with your parents and children, your brothers and neighbours. [21] Whereas in fact, if you’re living alone, you should call that peace and freedom, and view yourself as being like the gods; and if you find yourself in the company of a mass of people, you should call that not a mob and a source of uproar and vexation, but rather a feast and a public festival, and so accept everything with contentment. What is the punishment, then, of those who fail to accept things in that spirit? To be just as they are. [22] Is someone discontented to find himself on his own? Then let him be all alone. He is discontented with his parents? Then let him be a bad son and grieve. He is discontented with his children? Then let him be a bad father.