Plain
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Either we follow Epicurus and foolishly think atoms cause everything, or we must accept that nature governs all things. Start with this: you are part of a universe that nature rules. Second, you are connected to other parts that share your same nature. If I remember these two things — that I am just one part of the whole — I will never be upset by whatever happens to me in the common events of life.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 6 Book 10 · 8 of 57
Freedom & Control Calm Your Mind
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Either with Epicurus, we must fondly imagine the atoms to be the cause of all things, or we must needs grant a nature. Let this then be thy first ground, that thou art part of that universe, which is governed by nature. Then secondly, that to those parts that are of the same kind and nature as thou art, thou hast relation of kindred. For of these, if I shall always be mindful, first as I am a part, I shall never be displeased with anything, that falls to my particular share of the common chances of the world.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 6 Book 10 · 8 of 57
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor

Whatever happens to you was meant to happen from the beginning of time. The same chain of causes that created you also set in motion everything that would ever happen to you.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 5 Book 10 · 7 of 57
Freedom & Control Facing Hardship
Marcus Aurelius — The Emperor Original

Whatsoever it be that happens unto thee, it is that which from all time was appointed unto thee. For by the same coherence of causes, by which thy substance from all eternity was appointed to be, was also whatsoever should happen unto it, destinated and appointed.

Meditations, Book 10, Section 5 Book 10 · 7 of 57
‹ Previous Next ›

Ancient philosophy, in plain English.

About · Support