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
The longest-lived and the shortest-lived man, when they come to die, lose one and the same thing.
Interpretation
What this quote means
All people, regardless of their lifespan, ultimately face the same end: death.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius highlights the inevitability of death for all individuals, irrespective of how long they have lived. It invites reflection on the transient nature of life and the equality of human experiences in facing mortality, suggesting that in the end, material accomplishments or length of life hold little significance against the unifying reality of death.
Themes
DeathMortalityLifeTimeEquality
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about life and priorities, you might say, 'As Marcus Aurelius reminds us, the longest-lived and the shortest-lived man lose the same thing in death.'
More from Marcus Aurelius
All quotes βYou have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
Marcus AureliusRead
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.
Marcus AureliusRead
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
Marcus AureliusRead
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
Marcus AureliusRead
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Evil people naturally assume that you will use that power exactly as they would use it.
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