22. Stand Still While They Mock You

If you take the life of the mind seriously, Epictetus says, you should expect some people to mock you. Stand still while they do.

If you really want to take up philosophy, prepare yourself from the start to be laughed at, to be sneered at by the crowd, to hear them say, "He has come back to us a philosopher all at once," or, "Where did this lofty look come from?"

For your part, do not put on a lofty look.

Hold steadily to the things that seem best to you, as one placed by God in this station.

Remember, if you stay with it, the very people who laughed at you first will later admire you.

If you are beaten by them, though, you will earn their laughter twice.

What this means. Taking ideas seriously can make you a target. Hold your ground quietly and the mockery will turn to respect.