Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

When something comes before you, ask yourself: What is this thing really? What is it made of? What is its purpose? Why does it exist in this world, and how long will it last? You must examine everything this way.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 10 Book 8 · 12 of 67
Knowing Yourself What Matters Most
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

This, what is it in itself, and by itself, according to its proper constitution? What is the substance of it? What is the matter, or proper use? What is the form or efficient cause? What is it for in this world, and how long will it abide? Thus must thou examine all things, that present themselves unto thee.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 10 Book 8 · 12 of 67
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Repentance is blaming yourself for neglecting something useful. Whatever is good is also useful. An honest, virtuous person values good things and treats them as important. But no honest, virtuous person ever regrets missing out on physical pleasure. So physical pleasure is neither good nor useful.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 9 Book 8 · 11 of 67
Knowing Yourself What Matters Most
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Repentance is an inward and self-reprehension for the neglect or omission of somewhat that was profitable. Now whatsoever is good, is also profitable, and it is the part of an honest virtuous man to set by it, and to make reckoning of it accordingly. But never did any honest virtuous man repent of the neglect or omission of any carnal pleasure: no carnal pleasure then is either good or profitable.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 9 Book 8 · 11 of 67
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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