For if these things are according to nature, rejoice in them and they will be easy to thee: but if contrary to nature, seek what is conformable to thy own nature, and strive towards this, even if it bring no reputation; for every man is allowed to seek his own good.
In his private writings, Marcus Aurelius advises aligning one's actions with nature, prioritizing personal good over external reputation.
Share
More from Marcus Aurelius
And how small a part of the whole substance; and how small a part of the universal soul; and on what a small clod of the whole earth thou creepest!
How small a part of the boundless and unfathomable time is assigned to every man, for it is very soon swallowed up in the eternal!
But everything else, whether it is in the power of thy will or not, is only lifeless ashes and smoke.
Other voices in this conversation
