As on a voyage when the vessel has reached a port, if you go out to get water, it is an amusement by the way to pick up a shellfish or some bulb, but your thoughts ought to be directed to the ship, and you ought to be constantly watching if the captain should call, and then you must throw away all those things, that you may not be bound and pitched into the ship like sheep: so in life also, if there be given to you instead of a little bulb and a shell a wife and child, there will be nothing to prevent (you from taking them). But if the captain should call, run to the ship, and leave all those things without regard to them. But if you are old, do not even go far from the ship, lest when you are called you make default.

- Epictetus, Enchiridon VII

Does Epictetus suggest we should not care for our family and loved ones? Certainly not. And what of this captain with the audacity to beckon us away from everything we value on their whim?

Well friend, the captain is life and all it will throw at you. Will you be ready when the time comes, or might you avoid destiny? For the latter, good luck. And the former, may fortitude be with you.

So value your loved ones and enjoy your possessions, but avoid clinging to them so tightly that when you are facing times of adversity, parting with them would destroy your psyche. Don't let that ship leave without you, as you might never get to port again.