It’s Diwali week, and I am sure all Hindus will be very busy prepping their homes and getting festive ready. To all those who celebrate the festival, here’s wishing you a very happy Diwali. May the warmth and splendour, that are a part of this auspicious occasion fill your life with happiness and bright cheer and bring to you joy and prosperity for the whole year.

First century Greek Stoic philosopher, who spent much of his life as a slave before gaining freedom and becoming a prominent teacher of Stoicism, Epictetus is the author of today’s quote. Stoicism is a philosophy centered on virtue, wisdom, and the importance of personal control over emotions. Epictetus’ teachings, compiled by his pupil Arrian in *Discourses* and *The Enchiridion*, emphasise resilience, self-discipline, and the importance of focusing on what one can control while accepting what one cannot. This quote emphasises the importance of accepting life’s events as they occur rather than resisting them or wishing they were different. The quote suggests that peace comes from aligning one’s desires with reality. Instead of fighting against what happens or wishing things were different, one should embrace what is, and this acceptance will bring inner tranquility. It reflects the Stoic philosophy that we cannot control external events, but we can control how we respond to them. By accepting circumstances as they unfold, we free ourselves from unnecessary stress and frustration. The message is that by wishing for things to be as they are rather than how we want them to be, we can maintain a balanced and peaceful state of mind, leading to a smoother, more harmonious life.

I had a bit of disappointment this week and for about a day I allowed myself to wallow in my disappointment, but then like I always do, I tried to bounce back. I have always found myself yo-yoing between being very positive and a ‘the glass is half full’ kind of person to a ‘this was the absolute worst thing that can happen to me’ person. I know being positive is the way to be, but sometimes, it’s hard not to get caught up with negativity when nothing seems to be going well in your life. I am trying though, and taking baby steps to correct myself when I find myself being negative and wallowing in self pity.

Anyway, I want to keep this week positive and enjoy the festival of light, food, and family! See you all next week! And in the meantime, keep smiling and stay positive.