I have walked through markets where men shout and stare, thinking their anger can wound me. They see my body, my clothes, or my name, and they think to strike there. But I know better. A wall of stone can be breached by fire or siege, yet a mind fortified by right judgment stands against all assault. When a man believes he is harmed by another’s words, he builds no defense; he tears down his own fortress. The only thing that makes us safe is the opinion we hold about what truly matters.

I ask you to stop trembling when the world turns rough. Do not wait for others to understand your virtue before you act with peace. Today, when insult comes or opportunity fails, do not let your mind flee into fear or rage. Stand firm within yourself and laugh lightly at those who think they can hurt a soul that knows its true good.