"It is not death or pain that is to be dreaded, but the fear of pain or death"

This quote by Epictetus talks to the concept that it is not death or pain itself that ought to be feared, but rather the worry of pain or death. He is recommending that it is the worry of the unknown that can be more destructive than the real experience of discomfort or death. He is motivating us to face our worries and to not hesitate of the unknown. He is recommending that by facing our fears, we can end up being stronger and more durable. He is likewise suggesting that by facing our worries, we can find out to accept death and discomfort as part of life. By accepting death and pain, we can find out to live life to the maximum and to value the moments we have. Ultimately, Epictetus is motivating us to not hesitate of death or discomfort, but to embrace it and to use it as a tool to end up being more powerful and more durable.