11. To the aids which have been mentioned let this one still be added:
Make for thyself a definition or description of the thing which is
presented to thee, so as to see distinctly what kind of a thing it is in
its substance, in its nudity, in its complete entirety, and tell thyself
its proper name, and the names of the things of which it has been
compounded, and into which it will be resolved. For nothing is so
productive of elevation of mind as to be able to examine methodically and
truly every object which is presented to thee in life, and always to look
at things so as to see at the same time what kind of universe this is,
and what kind of use everything performs in it, and what value everything
has with reference to the whole, and what with reference to man, who is a
citizen of the highest city, of which all other cities are like families;
what each thing is, and of what it is composed, and how long it is the
nature of this thing to endure which now makes an impression on me, and
what virtue I have need of with respect to it, such as gentleness,
manliness, truth, fidelity, simplicity, contentment, and the rest.
Wherefore, on every occasion a man should say: This comes from god; and
this is according to the apportionment and spinning of the thread of
destiny, and such-like coincidence and chance; and this is from one of
the same stock, and a kinsman and partner, one who knows not, however,
what is according to his nature. But I know; for this reason I behave
towards him according to the natural law of fellowship with benevolence
and justice. At the same time, however, in things indifferent I attempt
to ascertain the value of each.

12. If thou workest at that which is before thee, following right reason
seriously, vigorously, calmly, without allowing anything else to distract
thee, but keeping thy divine part pure, as if thou shouldst be bound to
give it back immediately; if thou holdest to this, expecting nothing,