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
Be like the rocky headland on which the waves constantly break. It stands firm, and round it the seething waters are laid to rest.
Interpretation
Stay resilient and composed in the face of challenges.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius encourages individuals to be steadfast and resilient amid life's difficulties and challenges. Just as a rocky headland remains firm against the relentless waves, we too should maintain our composure and strength when faced with adversity, allowing the turmoil around us to settle while we stand strong.
In practice
During a motivational speech about overcoming challenges.
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.
But Chinese civilization has the overpowering beauty of the wholly other, and only the wholly other can inspire the deepest love and the profoundest desire to learn.
By moderation one can be generous.
As a reader and a writer, I'm happiest when apparently mutually exclusive states can somehow coexist.
I had much rather be adorned by beauty of character than by jewels. Jewels are the gift of fortune, character comes from within.
One of my great regrets, and I don't have many, is that I spent too long putting people's status and reputation ahead of their more important qualities. I learned far too late in life that a long list of letters after someone's name is no guarantee of compassion, kindness, humour, all the far more relevant stuff.
We are often better served by connecting ideas than we are by protecting them.
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