At first blush, Epictetus’s words may feel like a call for emotional detachment, but don't be misled.

He's nudging us toward a liberating truth: life’s events in themselves aren’t inherently good or bad; it's our perceptions that ascribe them value.

Consider frustratingly slow dining service or the unexpected rain on a picnic.

These events are neutral; it’s your reaction that pinpoints them as nuisances.

Imagine shrugging off the annoyance, seizing the moment to make light of the situation, or, in the case of the rainy picnic, sharing stories with a friend under the rain-soaked shelter.

By recognizing our power to reframe any situation, can you see how a shift in perception might liberate you from daily irritations?

Now, Epictetus isn't suggesting we become passive spectators in our lives. Instead, he's empowering us to actively mold our experience of the world.

This subtle shift turns obstacles into opportunities. Maybe the curveball is a chance to learn a new skill or to demonstrate patience. No one can stop you from finding a silver lining.

Can you think of a recent event where you felt victim to circumstance? How could you reframe it to reclaim your power?