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You are making an inopportune rejection of what Nature has given you today, if all your mind is set on what men will say of you tomorrow.
Marcus Aurelius
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Focus on the present and what nature offers rather than worrying about others' opinions of the future.

This quote by Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and appreciating what is currently available to us. It warns against allowing the fear of judgment from others to distract us from the gifts of life and nature that we have at present, advocating for a mindset that values the present over potential future concerns.

Themes

NaturePresentMindfulnessJudgmentPhilosophy

In practice

Example use cases

During a meditation session, one might share this quote to emphasize being present.

More from Marcus Aurelius

I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinions of himself than on the opinions of others.
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You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
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Do not act as if you were going to live ten thousand years. Death hangs over you. While you live, while it is in your power, be good.
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Vex not thy spirit at the course of things; they heed not thy vexation. How ludicrous and outlandish is astonishment at anything that may happen in life.
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You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
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A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
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