But so long as nothing of the kind drives me out, I remain, am free, and no man shall hinder me from doing what I choose; and I choose to do what is according to the nature of the rational and social animal.
Marcus Aurelius, in his personal writings, asserts his commitment to remain free and act in accordance with his rational and social nature unless compelled otherwise.
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More from Marcus Aurelius
In the application of thy principles thou must be like the pancratiast, not like the gladiator; for the gladiator lets fall the sword which he uses and is killed; but the other always has his hand, and needs to do nothing else than use it.
For every judgment and movement and desire and aversion is within, and no evil ascends so high.
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.
But if there is a providence which allows itself to be propitiated, make thyself worthy of the help of the divinity.
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