A Quote From Epictetus

Following is a quote by a greek philosopher named Epictetus. 

Had we understanding should we ever cease hymning and blessing the Divine Power, both openly and in secret, and telling of His gracious gifts? Whether digging of ploughing or eating, should we not sing the hymn to God: - Great is God, for he hath given us such instruments to till the ground withal: great is God, for he hath given us hands and the power of swallowing and digesting; of unconsciously growing and breathing while we sleep! Great is God, for he hath given us a mind to apprehend these things and to properly use them. What than! Seeing that most of you are blinded, should there not be some one to fill this place, and sing the hymn to God on behalf of all men? What else can I, that am old and lame do but sing to God. Were I a nightingale, I should do after the manner of a nightingale. Were I a swan, I should do after the manner of a swan. But now, since I am a reasonable being, I must sing to God: that is my work: I do it, nor will I desert this my post, as long as it is granted me to hold it; and upon you too I call to join in this selfsame hymn. 

Based on this quote I think we can answer some questions which everyone wants answered. 

What am I? A human being, which is a rational spirit enclosed in a shell of flesh. 

What is my purpose? To bless God. 

How can I do it? Using my reason. 

What aren't I? An animal, a creation who can only see the world through their senses and feelings. 

What isn't my purpose? To do what I want. 

What must I do? Destroy my reason, it is the tool that God gives humans which kets them be humans. A human who loses his reason is worse than an animal because a human has a spirit. And a spirit has power, so if the spirit is not controlled by reason it follow the bodies feelings and destroy itself and often those around it. 

Cool fact, Epictetus was a greek philosopher who lived about 50 - 120 AD. Id highly recommend reading any of his lectures or sayings that have been recorded. I hVe two copies of this book, if anyone wants it id be happy to let you have it, if you promise to let me talk with you about it while you read it.