Epictetus – It’s Not Things That Upset Us, but Our Opinions
Epictetus, Handbook 5, around 125 AD
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The story behind it
Epictetus (c. 50–135 AD) grew up as a slave in the house of a powerful freedman of Emperor Nero. According to an ancient story, his master once twisted his leg; Epictetus calmly warned him it would break – and when it did, he simply said: “Didn’t I tell you?” He was lame for life, but never let it rule him. That is the core of his teaching: things happen; how we judge them is up to us.
Details
“It’s not things that upset us, but our opinions about them.” – Epictetus, Handbook (Enchiridion) 5. Epictetus wrote in Greek; the Latin on the design is our own rendering.
Premium Bella+Canvas 3001 unisex tee, printed on demand close to you.
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- Bella+Canvas 3001 premium unisex tee
- 100% airlume combed and ring-spun cotton (heather colours contain polyester)
- Light, soft fabric (approx. 142 g/m²), retail fit, side-seamed
- Unisex fit – true to size. See the size guide for exact measurements.
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