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
He is a true fugitive who flies from reason.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of reason and rationality in life.
Marcus Aurelius suggests that true escape from our dilemmas and struggles comes not from fleeing the situation but from confronting it with reason. To ignore reason is to become a fugitive from one's true self and the reality of existence.
In practice
In a discussion about facing one's fears, this quote can highlight the importance of confronting issues rationally.
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.
I can think of no honorable answer. Why must some of us deliberate between brands of toothpaste, while others deliberate between damp dirt and bone dust to quiet the fire of an empty stomach lining? There is nothing about the United States I can really explain to this child of another world.
Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives, but none about his or her own.
Choice of evils debates always produce extremism - people choose what they hope is the lesser evil, then call it good and demonize the other choice. It will be a challenge for your generation to synthesize - to move beyond Us versus Them, to We.
Time is the old justice that examines all such offenders, and let Time try.
I am too much in love with my lies and hypocrisies not to confess them fervently.
Next to a lost battle, nothing is so sad as a battle that has been won.
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