Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Every nature finds satisfaction when it follows its proper course. A rational nature succeeds when it does three things. First, it doesn't accept ideas that are false or uncertain. Second, in all its actions and decisions, it aims only for the common good. It wants nothing and avoids nothing except what is within its own power to achieve or prevent. Third, it willingly accepts whatever the universal nature assigns to it.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 6 Book 8 · 7 of 67
Freedom & Control Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Every particular nature hath content, when in its own proper course it speeds. A reasonable nature doth then speed, when first in matter of fancies and imaginations, it gives no consent to that which is either false uncertain. Secondly, when in all its motions and resolutions it takes its level at the common good only, and that it desireth nothing, and flieth from nothing, bet what is in its own power to compass or avoid. And lastly, when it willingly and gladly embraceth, whatsoever is dealt and appointed unto it by the common nature.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 6 Book 8 · 7 of 67
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

The universe is always busy moving things around. It takes what is here and moves it there. It changes things and then moves them somewhere else. So you don't need to fear anything new. Everything follows the same patterns. All things are handled fairly.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 5 Book 8 · 6 of 67
Calm Your Mind Freedom & Control
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

That which the nature of the universe doth busy herself about, is; that which is here, to transfer it thither, to change it, and thence again to take it away, and to carry it to another place. So that thou needest not fear any new thing. For all things are usual and ordinary; and all things are disposed by equality.

Meditations, Book 8, Section 5 Book 8 · 6 of 67
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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