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
All is ephemeral - fame and the famous as well.
Interpretation
Everything, including fame and those who are famous, is temporary and will eventually fade.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius reflects the Stoic philosophy that emphasizes the transitory nature of life and achievements. It reminds us that clinging to fame and the adoration that accompanies it is futile, as all worldly success and recognition are ultimately fleeting, urging us to focus on more enduring values.
In practice
In a motivational speech about personal growth, one might say, 'Remember, all is ephemeral - fame and the famous as well, so focus on your true passions.'
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.
A free, virtuous, and enlightened people must know full well the great principles and causes upon which their happiness depends.
Wealthy men can't live in an island that is encircled by poverty. We all breathe the same air. We must give a chance to everyone, at least a basic chance.
If we must accept fate we are not less compelled to affirm liberty, the significance of the individual, the grandeur of duty, the power of character.
Nobody seems more obsessed by diet than our antimaterialist, otherworldly, New Age, spiritual types. But if the material world is merely illusion, an honest guru should as content with Budweiser and bratwurst as with raw carrot juice, tofu, and seaweed slime.
About sacrifice and the offering of sacrifices, sacrificial animals think quite differently from those who look on: but they have never been allowed to have their say.
Too weird to live, and too rare to die.
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