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
Where a man can live, he can also live well.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that one's environment or circumstances do not limit the potential for a fulfilling life.
Marcus Aurelius implies that regardless of the physical place in which one resides, it is possible to thrive and find quality in life. This speaks to the idea that our attitude and mindset play a crucial role in determining the quality of our experiences, highlighting the power of personal agency in shaping our lives for the better, regardless of external conditions.
In practice
Using this quote in a speech about overcoming adversity.
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.
Truth is a shining goddess, always veiled, always distant, never wholly approachable, but worthy of all the devotion of which the human spirit is capable.
My father was a man of great charity towards the poor, and compassion for the sick, and also for servants; so much so, that he never could be persuaded to keep slaves, for he pitied them so much: and a slave belonging to one of his brothers being once in his house, was treated by him with as much tenderness as his own children.
The pyramids, attached with age, have forgotten the names of their founders.
Ah, how many luxuries has the good God prepared for his Jewish children.
Wars are just to those to whom they are necessary.
Although a man may have no jurisdiction over the fact of his existence, he can hold supreme command over the meaning of existence for him.
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