Hold things lightly
Principle 11 from the Enchiridion
Care deeply without confusing love with permanent ownership. What comes into our lives is ours to care for, but not ours to keep forever.
Original Passage
Never say of anything, "I have lost it"; but, "I have returned it." Is your child dead? It is returned. Is your wife dead? She is returned. Is your estate taken away? Well, and is not that likewise returned? "But he who took it away is a bad man." What difference is it to you who the giver assigns to take it back? While he gives it to you to possess, take care of it; but don't view it as your own, just as travelers view a hotel.
Modern Interpretation
It is easy to speak as if our jobs, belongings, and loved ones are ours forever. Epictetus asks us to see them as part of our lives for a time.
When something leaves, Epictetus describes it as "returned" rather than "taken away." This does not erase grief. It reminds us that caring deeply is different from owning something absolutely.
In Practice
You lose a job you held for years, and it feels as though your whole life has been taken from you. The job was a role you had for a time. It was never your entire identity or something life promised you forever.
You may still be upset and worried about money. Then you can return to the next available step: update your resume, contact people, or learn what the next opportunity requires.
Reflection Question
What are you holding as though it is guaranteed to be yours forever? How would it feel to see it as something entrusted to you for a while?