Imagine for yourself a character, a model personality, whose

O seeker of wisdom, hear the ancient words of Epictetus, the Stoic philosopher who beckons us to live with integrity, both in the light of the world and in the shadows where no one watches. "Imagine for yourself a character, a model personality, whose example you determine to follow, in private as well as in public." In these words, he speaks of a vision—a vision of the person we strive to become, a model of virtue and strength, not only in the sight of others but in the hidden moments when our souls stand alone, unobserved. This is no fleeting suggestion, but a call to character, to live with purpose and consistency, embodying the highest ideals in every action, whether seen or unseen.

Consider, O wise one, the importance of character. What is a person without it? A mere shell, drifting with the winds of circumstance, reacting to the world instead of shaping it. A person of true character is a rock, steadfast in their principles, unyielding in the face of adversity, and unwavering in their actions, no matter who is watching. Epictetus calls upon us to not simply follow the whims of society, nor to bend with the flow of popular opinion, but to consciously create within ourselves a model of the ideal human—one whose conduct is always noble, whose virtues are consistent, and whose honor remains untainted.

The essence of this teaching lies in the idea of integrity—that a person's character is not divided by the public eye and the private heart. How easy it is to wear a mask, to act one way in the presence of others and another when alone. But this is the path of the weak, the hypocrite, and the frail spirit. Epictetus urges us to walk the path of the strong, those whose actions align with their values in every moment. The true test of character is not how we act when the world watches, but how we behave when no one is there to observe. The private moments, the unspoken hours of solitude—these are the crucibles in which the soul is refined.

Look to the lives of the great men and women of history, those who exemplified the highest character in both their public and private lives. Socrates, for example, lived with a deep sense of personal integrity. Though the eyes of Athens were often upon him, it was his private thoughts, his quiet moments of reflection, that truly defined him. He did not seek fame or the approval of the masses; he sought truth, and in doing so, he cultivated a character that was unshaken, whether teaching in the Agora or facing trial. His commitment to virtue in the private realm was just as steadfast as his public actions, for he knew that a life of integrity is built upon consistency, not fleeting appearances.

Consider also the story of Mahatma Gandhi, whose character was shaped by the same ideals that Epictetus spoke of. Gandhi, in both public and private, adhered to the principles of truth, nonviolence, and self-discipline. His actions in the public eye—leading peaceful protests, challenging unjust laws—were reflections of the inner discipline he cultivated when no one was watching. Gandhi understood that the soul is shaped not by external applause, but by the quiet resolve of living in alignment with one’s highest values. His life was a testament to the power of personal character and the extraordinary effect it can have on the world.

And so, the lesson, O seeker, is clear: create for yourself a model personality, a character of such nobility that it transcends the distinctions between private and public life. Live with integrity, let your actions be guided by your highest ideals, and know that the true measure of your life will not be in the accolades you receive, but in the consistency of your conduct, whether seen or unseen. For the soul that is true to itself, that lives in harmony with its values, is a soul that is free from the corrupting influence of the world. It is this freedom that allows the spirit to rise, unburdened by the weight of hypocrisy.

Therefore, let us take Epictetus’ words to heart and strive to build within ourselves a character that stands firm in all circumstances. Whether in the eyes of the many or in the solitude of our hearts, let us be consistent in our values, unwavering in our virtues, and unyielding in our pursuit of the good. For in this, we find not only true freedom, but the peace that comes from knowing we are living in alignment with our highest calling.