Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Does the sun try to do what rain is supposed to do? Or does Aesculapius try to do what belongs to the earth? What about each of the stars? They are all different from each other. They each have their own jobs and purposes. But don't they all work together toward one goal?

Meditations, Book 6, Section 38 Book 6 · 45 of 64
Human Nature Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Doth either the sun take upon him to do that which belongs to the rain? or his son Aesculapius that, which unto the earth doth properly belong? How is it with every one of the stars in particular? Though they all differ one from another, and have their several charges and functions by themselves, do they not all nevertheless concur and co-operate to one end?

Meditations, Book 6, Section 38 Book 6 · 45 of 64
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Now think about which group you belong to. The Administrator of all will use you whether you want it or not. He will make you work with him as part of the whole. Whatever you do will help his plans move forward. But don't be the kind of part that is like a bad, laughable line in a play — the kind Chrysippus mentions somewhere.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 37 Book 6 · 44 of 64
Freedom & Control Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Now do thou consider among which of these thou wilt rank thyself. For as for him who is the Administrator of all, he will make good use of thee whether thou wilt or no, and make thee (as a part and member of the whole) so to co-operate with him, that whatsoever thou doest, shall turn to the furtherance of his own counsels, and resolutions. But be not thou for shame such a part of the whole, as that vile and ridiculous verse (which Chrysippus in a place doth mention) is a part of the comedy.

Meditations, Book 6, Section 37 Book 6 · 44 of 64
‹ Previous Next ›

Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

About · Support