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
While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Act with goodness as long as you are capable of doing so.
This quote by Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of being virtuous and kind while one is alive and has the ability to choose their actions. It serves as a reminder to embrace goodness and moral integrity throughout one's life, making the most of the power we have to affect others positively.
Themes
GoodnessVirtueKindnessMoral IntegrityAction
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to encourage community service, one might use this quote to inspire good deeds.
More from Marcus Aurelius
All quotes →You 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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