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.
Marcus AureliusRead
Live out your life in truth and justice, tolerant of those who are neither true nor just.
Interpretation
Live authentically and justly, while accepting that not everyone will share these values.
This quote from Marcus Aurelius emphasizes the importance of living one's life with truth and justice as guiding principles. It encourages individuals to maintain their integrity and moral values even in the face of others who may not embody the same qualities. The call for tolerance suggests a balanced approach, recognizing that while striving for personal virtue is crucial, it is equally important to understand and accept the differing beliefs and behaviors of others.
In practice
In a motivational speech about maintaining personal integrity.
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.
You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.
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.
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.
You don't have to turn this into something. It doesn't have to upset you. Things can't shape our decisions by themselves.
A man's worth is no greater than his ambitions.
The benevolent have the advantage of the envious, even in this present life; for the envious man is tormented not only by all the ill that befalls himself, but by all the good that happens to another; whereas the benevolent man is the better prepared to bear his own calamities unruffled, from the complacency and serenity he has secured from contemplating the prosperity of all around him.
Remember what is unbecoming to do is also unbecoming to speak of.
Something of vengeance I had tasted for the first time; as aromatic wine it seemed, on swallowing, warm and racy: its after-flavour, metallic and corroding, gave me a sensation as if I had been poisoned.
Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.
When the voice of truth rises from the minarets, the Buddha smiles, and the broken chain of history reconnects.
Perspective [is] a luxury when your head [is] constantly buzzing with a swarm of demons.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.