Quotes from Marcus Aurelius

Observe always that everything is the result of a change, and get used to thinking that there is nothing Nature loves so well as to change existing forms and to make new ones like them.

Both happiness and unhappiness depend on perception

Death, like birth, is a secret of Nature.

Death, like birth, is one of nature's mysteries, the combining of primal elements and dissolving of the same into the same.

No one can keep you from living as your nature requires. Nothings can happen to you that is not required by Nature.

For any particular thing, ask: What is it in itself? What is its nature?

The nature of the All moved to make the universe.

This is the chief thing: be not perturbed, for all things are according to the nature of the universal.

When we consider we are bound to be serviceable to mankind, and bear with their faults, we shall perceive there is a common tie of nature and relation between us.

Think not disdainfully of death, but look on it with favor; for even death is one of the things that Nature wills.

The controlling Intelligence understands its own nature, and what it does, and whereon it works.

Why should a man have any apprehension about the change and dissolution of all the elements? For it is according to nature, and nothing is evil which is according to nature.

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.

Retire into thyself. The rational principle which rules has this nature, that it is content with itself when it does what is just, and so secures tranquility.

The true joy of humankind is in doing that which is most proper to our nature; and the first property of people is to be kindly affected towards them that are of one kind with ourselves.

Each of us needs what nature gives us, when nature gives us.

I will march on in the path of nature till my legs sink under me, and then I shall be at rest, and expire into that air which has given me my daily breath.

To a rational being it is the same thing to act according to nature and according to reason.

The only thing that isn't worthless: to live this life out truthfully and rightly, And be patience with those who don't.

Nowhere can man find a quieter or more untroubled retreat than in his own soul.

The best way of avenging thyself is not to become like the wrong-doer.

Be cheerful, also, and seek not external help, nor the peace which others give. A man must stand straight, and not be kept straight by others.

He who has seen present things has seen all, both everything which has taken place from all eternity and everything which will be for time without end; for all things are of one kin and of one form.

It is not fit that I should give myself pain, for I have never intentionally given pain even to another.