As far as you can, get into the habit of asking yourself in relation to any action taken by another: 'What is his point of reference here?' But begin with yourself: examine yourself first.
Remember that what pulls the strings is that part of us hidden inside: that is the power to act, that is the principle of life, that, one could say, is the man himself. So never give any equal thought to the vessel which contains it or the organs built round it. These are an instrument like an axe, differing only in their attachment to the body. There is no more use in these parts without the agency which starts or stops them than in the shuttle without the weaver, the pen without the writer, the whip without the driver.
Always check your own assumptions first (examine yourself) and then try to put yourself in the other person's shoes. This will help you have empathy and kindness towards all.
The body is only a vessel - a means to act. What truly is you is your directing mind - your hegemonikon. This is what is truly ours - we get to choose.
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