“Whenever you find yourself blaming providence, turn it around in your mind and you will see that what has happened is in keeping with reason.”
- Epictetus, Discourses, 3.17.1
March 13, 2021 7:00 AM
We can focus on the direction of our lives so intently, that any deviation from our plans feels like a complete setback. We are so focused on trying to control outcomes that we don't understand how to take advantage of unforeseen events.
Conclusion
Epictetus is reminding us to be aware that there are often opportunities to be found when we are wronged or presented with problems. Opportunities unveil themselves when we accept what's outside our control.