Adversity introduces a person to himself

In Stoicism, particularly in the teachings of Epictetus, Seneca, and Marcus Aurelius, adversity is seen as a test of character. Stoics believe that we don't control what happens to us, but we do control how we respond. Adversity thus becomes a mirror reflecting our true selves — our resilience, our capacity to endure, and our ability to maintain equanimity in the face of challenges. It is in difficult times that a person's true virtues are tested and manifested.