Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Think about this when your time comes to die. You will die more willingly when you realize: I am leaving a world where even my closest friends — the people I have suffered for, prayed for, and cared for — secretly hope I will die. They think they will be happier once I am gone. Why would anyone want to stay longer in such a place? Still, when you die, do not let this make you bitter toward them.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 36 Book 10 · 54 of 57
Death & Mortality Human Nature
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

This therefore if thou shalt think of whensoever thou diest, thou shalt die the more willingly, when thou shalt think with thyself; I am now to depart from that world, wherein those that have been my nearest friends and acquaintances, they whom I have so much suffered for, so often prayed for, and for whom I have taken such care, even they would have me die, hoping that after my death they shall live happier, than they did before. What then should any man desire to continue here any longer? Nevertheless, whensoever thou diest, thou must not be less kind and loving unto them for it;

Meditations, Book 10, Section 36 Book 10 · 54 of 57
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

No one dies so beloved that someone nearby won't feel relieved. Even if the person was truly good and wise, someone will think: 'Finally, I'm free of this teacher. He never bothered us much, but I always knew he judged us in his heart.' That's what they'll say about the virtuous person. As for us — there are so many reasons people would be glad to see us go.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 36 Book 10 · 53 of 57
Death & Mortality Human Nature
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

There is not any man that is so happy in his death, but that some of those that are by him when he dies, will be ready to rejoice at his supposed calamity. Is it one that was virtuous and wise indeed? will there not some one or other be found, who thus will say to himself; 'Well now at last shall I be at rest from this pedagogue. He did not indeed otherwise trouble us much: but I know well enough that in his heart, he did much condemn us.' Thus will they speak of the virtuous. But as for us, alas I how many things be there, for which there be many that glad would be to be rid of us.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 36 Book 10 · 53 of 57
‹ Previous Next ›

Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

About · Support