Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

I will do what is mine to do. Other things — whether lifeless objects, irrational creatures, or people who are rational but confused and ignorant — will not trouble me. I use things without reason freely and generously, as someone with reason should. With people, since they share the same rational nature, I try to be social and cooperative. Whatever you are doing, remember to call on the gods. And don't worry about how long you will live to do these things. Even three hours would be enough.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 21 Book 6 · 24 of 64
Freedom & Control Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

I for my part will do what belongs unto me; as for other things, whether things unsensible or things irrational; or if rational, yet deceived and ignorant of the true way, they shall not trouble or distract me. For as for those creatures which are not endued with reason and all other things and-matters of the world whatsoever I freely, and generously, as one endued with reason, of things that have none, make use of them. And as for men, towards them as naturally partakers of the same reason, my care is to carry myself sociably. But whatsoever it is that thou art about, remember to call upon the Gods. And as for the time how long thou shalt live to do these things, let it be altogether indifferent unto thee, for even three such hours are sufficient.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 21 Book 6 · 24 of 64
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

If someone corrects me and shows me clearly that I'm wrong in my thoughts or actions, I'll gladly change. I'm looking for truth. Truth never hurts anyone. But staying wrong or ignorant — that does hurt.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 20 Book 6 · 23 of 64
Knowing Yourself Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

If anybody shall reprove me, and shall make it apparent unto me, that in any either opinion or action of mine I do err, I will most gladly retract. For it is the truth that I seek after, by which I am sure that never any man was hurt; and as sure, that he is hurt that continueth in any error, or ignorance whatsoever.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 20 Book 6 · 23 of 64
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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