Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

When something can be done according to reason — the same reason that gods and humans share — there is no good reason to grieve or worry. When you can gain the fruit of an action that was started well and carried out according to human nature, or when success is certain, it makes no sense to fear damage. Everywhere and always, you have the power to accept whatever God has given you with reverence. You can deal justly with the people you encounter. You can carefully examine every thought that comes to mind, so nothing slips past before you truly understand what it is.

Meditations, Book 7, Section 29 Book 7 · 37 of 58
Freedom & Control Calm Your Mind
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Where the matter may be effected agreeably to that reason, which both unto the Gods and men is common, there can be no just cause of grief or sorrow. For where the fruit and benefit of an action well begun and prosecuted according to the proper constitution of man may be reaped and obtained, or is sure and certain, it is against reason that any damage should there be suspected. In all places, and at all times, it is in thy power religiously to embrace whatsoever by God's appointment is happened unto thee, and justly to converse with those men, whom thou hast to do with, and accurately to examine every fancy that presents itself, that nothing may slip and steal in, before thou hast rightly apprehended the true nature of it.

Meditations, Book 7, Section 29 Book 7 · 37 of 58
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

He has a stronger body and is a better wrestler than I am. So what? Is he more generous? Is he more humble? Does he handle bad luck with more calm? Does he deal with his neighbor's wrongs with more patience and kindness than I do?

Meditations, Book 7, Section 28 Book 7 · 36 of 58
Knowing Yourself What Matters Most
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

He hath a stronger body, and is a better wrestler than I. What then? Is he more bountiful? is he more modest? Doth he bear all adverse chances with more equanimity: or with his neighbour's offences with more meekness and gentleness than I?

Meditations, Book 7, Section 28 Book 7 · 36 of 58
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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