Throw away thy books; no longer distract thyself: it is not allowed; but as if thou wast now dying, despise the flesh; it is blood and bones and network, a contexture of nerves, veins, and arteries.
From his personal reflections, urging a focus on the essential self and detachment from physical distractions and the body.
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More from Marcus Aurelius
As thou intendest to live when them art gone out, ... so it is in thy power to live here.
For every judgment and movement and desire and aversion is within, and no evil ascends so high.
Be cheerful also, and seek not external help nor the tranquillity which others give.
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