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
Do not fear death, but welcome it, since it too comes from nature. For just as we are young and grow old, and flourish and reach maturity, have teeth and a beard and grey hairs, conceive, become pregnant, and bring forth new life, and all the other natural processes that follow the seasons of our existence, so also do we have death. A thoughtful person will never take death lightly, impatiently, or scornfully, but will wait for it as one of life's natural processes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Embrace death as a natural part of life instead of fearing it.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius conveys the idea that death is an inevitable and natural part of the life cycle, just as birth, growth, and aging are. It encourages us to accept death with a sense of calm and understanding rather than fear, emphasizing that being thoughtful about our mortality helps us to live more fully and appreciate the journey of life.
Themes
DeathNatureLifePhilosophyAcceptance
In practice
Example use cases
In a eulogy, to remind attendees that death is a natural part of life.
More from Marcus Aurelius
All quotes βYou have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
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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.
Marcus AureliusRead
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.
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You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
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A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
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