Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

All parts of the world must eventually decay. I should say 'change' to be more precise, but I'll use the common word so you understand me better. Now think about this: if this decay is both harmful and unavoidable, wouldn't the whole universe be in trouble? All its parts would be doomed to change, and the universe itself would be designed for corruption since it's made of different and opposing things.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 7 Book 10 · 11 of 57
Death & Mortality Freedom & Control
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

All parts of the world, (all things I mean that are contained within the whole world), must of necessity at some time or other come to corruption. Alteration I should say, to speak truly and properly; but that I may be the better understood, I am content at this time to use that more common word. Now say I, if so be that this be both hurtful unto them, and yet unavoidable, would not, thinkest thou, the whole itself be in a sweet case, all the parts of it being subject to alteration, yea and by their making itself fitted for corruption, as consisting of things different and contrary?

Meditations, Book 10, Section 7 Book 10 · 11 of 57
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

When I remember that I am part of this universe, I won't be upset by what happens. And since I'm connected to other people who share my nature, I'll be careful not to harm the community. In all my choices, I'll think of my fellow humans first. I'll aim for the common good and try to prevent anything that works against it. Once you accept these ideas, think of this: you would call a citizen happy if he always worked for his fellow citizens' benefit, and if the city treated him well in return. In the same way, you will live a happy life.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 6 Book 10 · 10 of 57
Human Nature Doing The Right Thing
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

As then I bear in mind that I am a part of such an universe, I shall not be displeased with anything that happens. And as I have relation of kindred to those parts that are of the same kind and nature that I am, so I shall be careful to do nothing that is prejudicial to the community, but in all my deliberations shall they that are of my kind ever be; and the common good, that, which all my intentions and resolutions shall drive unto, as that which is contrary unto it, I shall by all means endeavour to prevent and avoid. These things once so fixed and concluded, as thou wouldst think him a happy citizen, whose constant study and practice were for the good and benefit of his fellow citizens, and the carriage of the city such towards him, that he were well pleased with it; so must it needs be with thee, that thou shalt live a happy life.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 6 Book 10 · 10 of 57
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Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

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