Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

We all work toward the same outcome. Some do it willingly, understanding what they're doing. Others work without knowing it. Heraclitus said that even sleeping people do their part and contribute to how the world works. One person helps in one way, another person helps differently. Even the person who complains and tries to resist and get in the way — even he contributes as much as anyone else. The world needs people like that too.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 37 Book 6 · 43 of 64
Human Nature Freedom & Control
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

We all work to one effect, some willingly, and with a rational apprehension of what we do: others without any such knowledge. As I think Heraclitus in a place speaketh of them that sleep, that even they do work in their kind, and do confer to the general operations of the world. One man therefore doth co-operate after one sort, and another after another sort; but even he that doth murmur, and to his power doth resist and hinder; even he as much as any doth co-operate. For of such also did the world stand in need.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 37 Book 6 · 43 of 64
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

But if we only think of things as good and bad when they truly depend on our own choices, then we have no reason to complain against the gods or hold grudges against other people.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 36 Book 6 · 42 of 64
Freedom & Control Calm Your Mind
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

But if we mind and fancy those things only, as good and bad, which wholly depend of our own wills, there is no more occasion why we should either murmur against the Gods, or be at enmity with any man.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 36 Book 6 · 42 of 64
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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