Marcus Aurelius: “And consider that only to the rational animal is it given to follow…”

On the recordJanuary 1, 175

And consider that only to the rational animal is it given to follow voluntarily what happens; but simply to follow is a necessity imposed on all.

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Marcus Aurelius

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This passage distinguishes the unique human capacity for voluntary acceptance of events from the universal necessity of following fate.

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But everything else, whether it is in the power of thy will or not, is only lifeless ashes and smoke.

Jan 1, 175

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!

Jan 1, 175

But it is inconsistent with honoring reason and God to be troubled because by death a man will be deprived of the other things.

Jan 1, 175

Depart then satisfied, for he also who releases thee is satisfied.

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Marcus Aurelius: “And consider that only to the rational animal is it given to follow voluntarily what happens; but simply to follow is a…”