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
Observe always that everything is the result of a change, and get used to thinking that there is nothing Nature loves so well as to change existing forms and to make new ones like them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Change is a fundamental aspect of nature that leads to the creation of new forms from existing ones.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the inevitability and necessity of change in the natural world. It suggests that everything we observe is a result of transformation, and nature thrives on innovation and adaptation. By understanding and accepting this constant state of flux, we can develop a mindset that embraces change rather than resists it, recognizing it as a vital part of existence.
Themes
ChangeNatureTransformationAdaptationPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on environmental science, this quote can highlight the importance of adaptation in ecosystems.
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
Similar quotes
All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives.
Dalai LamaRead
Within the extent of your knowledge, you are right.
Ayn RandRead
Let the natural flow of the universe, course through your being, and harmonize your soul.
Ram DassRead
When people get rich, they cut themselves off from the context that has earned them these riches - the context of the common men. They forget they are part of society.
N. R. Narayana MurthyRead
All sound heard at the greatest possible distance produces one and the same effect, a vibration of the universal lyre, just as the intervening atmosphere makes a distant ridge of earth interesting to our eyes by the azure tint it imparts to it.
Henry David ThoreauRead
It is said an Eastern monarch once charged his wise men to invent him a sentence to be ever in view, and which should be true and appropriate in all times and situations. They presented him the words, "And this too, shall pass away." How much it expresses! How chastening in the hour of pride! How consoling in the depths of affliction!
Abraham LincolnRead