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
Run down the list of those who felt intense anger at something: the most famous, the most unfortunate, the most hated, the most whatever: Where is all that now? Smoke, dust, legend...or not even a legend. Think of all the examples. And how trivial the things we want so passionately are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the fleeting nature of anger and the triviality of our passions.
Marcus Aurelius, a Stoic philosopher, contemplates the temporary and inconsequential nature of anger and personal grievances. He encourages reflection on how the historical figures we remember for their anger or passion eventually fade into obscurity, emphasizing that the things we care deeply about may ultimately be trivial in the grand scheme of life.
Themes
AngerTrivialityStoicismPhilosophyReflection
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting to discuss personal growth, one could use this quote to highlight the futility of holding onto anger.
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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