"Lo que la fortuna ha hecho tuyo no es realmente tuyo."

Let's dive into this idea. The core thought here is that anything given to you by good luck or chance isn't really something you can truly claim as your own. It’s like saying that if you didn't earn it through your own efforts, it could easily slip away—because, in a sense, it was never really yours to begin with.

Historically, this kind of thinking often crops up in discussions about wealth, success, and the nature of genuine ownership. Think about the ancient Stoics, who were all about understanding what you can control versus what’s out of your hands. They'd argue that external stuff—like money, status, or even physical beauty—can come and go in a flash. So, you should focus more on internal virtues and personal growth, which are truly yours.

Let's bring it down to earth with a real-life example. Imagine someone wins the lottery. Overnight, they go from a modest lifestyle to unimaginable wealth. They didn’t work for it; it was pure luck—fortune’s hand. Some of these lottery winners, having no experience managing such vast amounts of money, may end up losing it all. Without the skills or knowledge to maintain and grow that wealth, it can vanish, leaving them back where they started or sometimes in an even worse position. This example shows how something given by chance isn’t solid ground; it’s a temporary platform that can give way at any moment.

So, how do you apply this bit of wisdom in your own life? The trick is to invest in what’s truly yours—your skills, your knowledge, your character. Focus on what you can build with your own hands and mind. Maybe it’s honing a craft, investing in education, or building relationships based on mutual respect and care. These are the things that, once yours, can’t be taken away by the whims of fortune.

Think about a scenario to illustrate this. Picture Jenny, who’s been handed her family’s business. It’s a successful, thriving enterprise. She didn’t build it; her parents did. If she doesn’t take the time to learn the ropes, understand the market, and develop her managerial skills, she’s at risk. There’s a real chance that without her active effort and engagement, the business could falter. But if Jenny dives in, learns every detail, innovates, and nurtures her team—then she’s transforming that gift of fortune into something truly her own.

In essence, we’re talking about ownership beyond just physical possessions or wealth. It’s about what’s intrinsically tied to your efforts and character. Think of it like a garden—you can inherit the land, but without your care and work, it won’t flourish. Conversely, a garden you tend yourself, nurturing each plant and removing the weeds, reflects your dedication and effort. It’s genuinely yours.

So, next time you find yourself handed something by chance, pause and think. How can you make it truly yours? How can you infuse it with your sweat, your heart, and your mind? That’s where the real value lies—not in the gift itself, but in what you do with it.