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
Perfection of character is this: to live each day as if it were your last, without frenzy, without apathy, without pretence.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of living each day fully and authentically.
Marcus Aurelius highlights that the essence of a good character lies in approaching each day with the mindset that it could be our last. This perspective encourages us to live without extreme emotional reactions, indifference, or dishonesty, advocating for a balanced and genuine way of life.
In practice
During a motivational speech on self-improvement, this quote can be shared to inspire others to embrace each day.
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.
I would rather sleep in the southern corner of a little country churchyard than in the tomb of the Capulets.
If we go back to the beginning, we shall find that ignorance and fear created the gods; that fancy, enthusiasm, or deceit adorned them; that weakness worships them; that credulity preserves them and that custom, respect and tyranny support them in order to make the blindness of men serve their own interests. If the ignorance of nature gave birth to gods, the knowledge of nature is calculated to destroy them.
We were all brought up to want things and maybe the world isn't big enough for all that wanting. I don't know. I don't know anything
We can never be sure that the opinion we are endeavoring to stifle is a false opinion; and if we were sure, stifling it would be an evil still.
Godβs purpose is βto bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.β2 That is fundamental to all we do. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in things that we find fascinating or become so consumed by mundane responsibilities that we lose sight of Godβs objectives. As you consistently focus your life on the most basic principles, you will gain an understanding of what you are to do, and you will produce more fruit for the Lord and more happiness for yourself.
If truth is the main casualty in war, ambiguity is another.
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