131
All things serve and obey the [laws of the] universe: the earth, the sea, the sun, the stars, and the plants and animals of the earth. Our body likewise obeys the same, in being sick and well, young and old, and passing through the other changes decreed. It is therefore reasonable that what depends on ourselves, that is, our own understanding, should not be the only rebel. For the universe is powerful and superior, and consults the best for us by governing us in conjunction with the whole. And further, opposition, besides that it is unreasonable, and produces nothing except a vain struggle, throws us into pain and sorrows.
Other fragments.
B
The following Fragments are ascribed jointly to Epictetus and other authors.
1
Moderation, as it is a short and agreeable way, brings much delight and little trouble.
2
Fortify yourself with moderation; for this is an impregnable fortress.
3
Prefer nothing to truth, not even the choicest friendship, since this borders on those passions by which justice is both confounded and darkened.
4
Truth is an immortal and an eternal thing. It bestows not a beauty which time will wither, nor a courage which may quail before a human tribunal; but only things just and lawful, from which it divides and destroys all that is unjust.
5
We should have neither a blunt sword nor a pointless speech.
6
Nature has given man one tongue, but two ears, that we may hear twice as much as we speak.
