Book ii
. Chap. i._
The materials of action are variable, but the use we make of them should be constant.
_How Nobleness of Mind may be consistent with Prudence. Chap. v._
Shall I show you the muscular training of a philosopher? "What muscles are those?"--A will undisappointed; evils avoided; powers daily exercised; careful resolutions; unerring decisions.
_Wherein consists the Essence of Good. Chap. viii._
Dare to look up to God and say, "Make use of me for the future as Thou wilt. I am of the same mind; I am one with Thee. I refuse nothing which seems good to Thee. Lead me whither Thou wilt. Clothe me in whatever dress Thou wilt."
_That we do not study to make Use of the established Principles concerning Good and Evil. Chap. xvi._
What is the first business of one who studies philosophy? To part with self-conceit. For it is impossible for any one to begin to learn what he thinks that he already knows.
_How to apply general Principles to particular Cases. Chap. xvii._
Every habit and faculty is preserved and increased by correspondent actions,--as the habit of walking, by walking; of running, by running.
_How the Semblances of Things are to be combated. Chap. xviii._
Whatever you would make habitual, practise it; and if you would not make a thing habitual, do not practise it, but habituate yourself to something else.
_How the Semblances of Things are to be combated. Chap. xviii._
Reckon the days in which you have not been angry. I used to be angry every day; now every other day; then every third and fourth day; and if you miss it so long as thirty days, offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God.
_How the Semblances of Things are to be combated. Chap. xviii._
Be not hurried away by excitement, but say, "Semblance, wait for me a little. Let me see what you are and what you represent. Let me try you."
_How the Semblances of Things are to be combated. Chap. xviii._
Things true and evident must of necessity be recognized by those who would contradict them.
_Concerning the Epicureans. Chap. xx._
There are some things which men confess with ease, and others with difficulty.
_Of Inconsistency. Chap. xxi._
Who is there whom bright and agreeable children do not attract to play and creep and prattle with them?
_Concerning a Person whom he treated with Disregard. Chap. xxiv._
Two rules we should always have ready,--that there is nothing good or evil save in the will; and that we are not to lead events, but to follow them.
_In what Manner we ought to bear Sickness.