1. Obligations are universally defined by the bonds of relation. Is such a man your father? Then it is implied that you are to take care of him, to give place to him in all things, to bear his rebukes, his chastisement. But if he be a bad father? Were you then related by any law of Nature to a good father? Nay, but simply to a father. Your brother does you wrong. Then guard your own place towards him, nor scrutinize what he is doing, but what you may do to keep your will in accord with Nature. For none other shall hurt you, if yourself choose it not, but you shall be hurt then when you conceive yourself to be so.
1. Our duties are always defined by our relationships. Is this man your father? Then you must care for him, yield to him in all things, and bear his scolding and punishment. But what if he is a bad father? Did any law of Nature make you the child of a good father? No, simply of a father. Your brother wrongs you. Then fulfill your own role toward him. Do not focus on what he does, but on how you can keep your will in harmony with Nature. For no one else can harm you unless you choose to let them. You are harmed when you believe you have been harmed.
2. Thus shall you discover your obligations from the offices of a neighbor, a citizen, a general, if you will accustom yourself to watch the relationships.
2. You will discover your duties as a neighbor, a citizen, or a general this way. Make a habit of paying attention to your relationships.