I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
Marcus AureliusRead
Anything in any way beautiful derives its beauty from itself and asks nothing beyond itself. Praise is no part of it, for nothing is made worse or better by praise.
Interpretation
True beauty is inherent and does not require external validation or praise.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius reflects the idea that beauty is an intrinsic quality that does not rely on external appreciation or praise. It emphasizes that the true essence of beauty exists independently, and while praise can be nice, it does not enhance or diminish the inherent beauty of something. The pursuit of self-sufficiency in beauty suggests that we should appreciate things for what they are rather than seeking validation from others.
In practice
When giving a speech about the nature of art, you could cite this quote to emphasize the idea that true artistic beauty is self-contained.
I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
Vex not thy spirit at the course of things; they heed not thy vexation. How ludicrous and outlandish is astonishment at anything that may happen in life.
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
He who cannot command himself should obey. And many can command themselves, but much is still lacking before they can obey themselves.
A man on a horse is spiritually, as well as physically, bigger then a man on foot.
Gourmandise is an impassioned, rational, and habitual preference for all objects which flatter the sense of taste.
Place principle above all else.
Not until we dare to regard ourselves as a nation, not until we respect ourselves, can we gain the esteem of others, or rather only then will it come of its own accord
The main cause is a pernicious falsehood propagated against her being, namely that she is inferior by her nature. Inferior in what? What has man ever done that woman, under the same advantages could not do?
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