Feeling
Stress
Stoic passages for stress, each with a modern reading you can use today.
- Chrysippus A happy, well-ordered life comes from bringing one's own guiding spirit into harmony with the will that governs the…
- Diogenes Laertius Diogenes of Sinope said that we exchange what is precious for what is cheap, and sometimes the cheap for the precious.
- Epictetus A fine and good person neither quarrels nor, as far as possible, permits quarrelling. Education teaches what belongs…
- Epictetus A philosopher brings the will into accord with events, so that nothing arrives wholly against it and no wish is…
- Epictetus A philosopher's school is a clinic, not a pleasure hall. We should leave it challenged, because we arrive unwell.
- Epictetus Among all things, some are good, some bad, and some indifferent. Virtue and what shares in it are good; vice and what…
- Epictetus Ask yourself at first light: What do I lack for freedom from passion and for peace? What am I: merely body, owner, or…
- Epictetus Consider what you are: before all else, a human being whose greatest power is reasoned choice, governing all else and…
- Epictetus Consider when, on a voyage, your ship is anchored; if you go on shore to get water you may along the way amuse…
- Epictetus Decide first what sort of person you intend to be; then do what follows from that decision. Athletes choose their…
- Epictetus Difficulties reveal character. When a trial meets you, think of it as a younger training partner sent by a coach.…
- Epictetus Do not demand events follow your preference; prefer events as they occur, and life will go more smoothly.
- Epictetus Don't demand that things happen as you wish, but wish that they happen as they do happen, and you will go on well.
- Epictetus Endure a demanding winter of training; do not rush into work for which you have made no preparation.
- Epictetus Events make us fearful when we judge that others control them. A stronghold falls not chiefly to fire or steel, but to…
- Epictetus Every capacity is strengthened by the actions that match it: walking by walking, running by running. Anger likewise…
- Epictetus Every matter has two handles: one by which it can be carried, another by which it cannot. When a brother wrongs you,…
- Epictetus Every strong capacity is risky for the beginner; use such powers only as you can, and in accord with nature.
- Epictetus For a time, do not advertise your philosophy. Let it grow like seed hidden in the soil until it is mature; fruit shown…
- Epictetus Guard the good that is yours in every action. With all else, use what comes as reason allows; otherwise you will be…
- Epictetus Guard your impressions constantly. What you defend is no minor possession: your dignity, reliability, steadiness,…
- Epictetus Habit has great force. Since we are accustomed to chasing and avoiding what lies beyond our choice, we must build the…
- Epictetus I do not call someone diligent merely because they stay up reading or writing. I must first know the aim of their…
- Epictetus If you are defeated and say you will overcome, yet continue exactly as before, you will grow so weak that eventually…
- Epictetus If you are struck by the appearance of any promised pleasure, guard yourself against being hurried away by it; but let…
- Epictetus If you call what is servile free, or claim as yours what belongs to another, you will be frustrated and accusing.…
- Epictetus If you have assumed any character above your strength, you have both made an ill figure in that and quitted one which…
- Epictetus If you seek something good, draw it from yourself.
- Epictetus It is a mark of want of genius to spend much time in things relating to the body, as to be long in our exercises, in…
- Epictetus It is absurd to demand, ‘Tell me exactly what to do.’ Ask instead to train your mind to meet every circumstance, so…
- Epictetus Keep this ready at dawn, by day, and at night: the road to contentment is to release everything outside your choice,…
- Epictetus Learn to live as a healthy person lives: with confidence in what is dependable, unhindered, and cannot be taken—your…
- Epictetus Life resembles a campaign: one person keeps watch, another scouts, another stands in the front line. Each life is a…
- Epictetus Misfortune, quarrels, blame, and agitation are judgments outside our choice. Restrict judgment to choice, and peace…
- Epictetus My will has not been blocked or compelled, because I have joined my choices to the will of the divine. If it wills…
- Epictetus Nothing outside my chosen judgment can obstruct or injure it; only it can damage itself. When we fail, blame no one…
- Epictetus Once standards are established, things can be tested against them. Philosophy examines and protects those standards;…
- Epictetus Remember that you are an actor in a drama, assigned a role by another. Your task is to play it well, whether it is…
- Epictetus Socrates said: as one person enjoys tending a field and another training a horse, I enjoy improving myself each day.
- Epictetus Some things are in our control and others not. Things in our control are opinion, pursuit, desire, aversion, and, in a…
- Epictetus Some things depend on us and others do not. Our judgments, choices, desires, aversions, and actions are ours. Body,…
- Epictetus The gods left us the ruling power: the ability to use appearances well, which governs all else. They gave no more, not…
- Epictetus The good person is unconquerable because they do not enter contests where they are weak. Others may take possessions,…
- Epictetus The soul is like water and impressions like light upon it. When water is stirred, the light seems to move, though it…
- Epictetus These paths cannot be combined. Be one person: devote yourself either to sound judgment or to externals; guard the…
- Epictetus True education is learning to apply our natural ideas properly, and to distinguish what depends on us from what does…
- Epictetus We govern our rational choice and whatever follows from that moral will. Beyond our control are the body and its…
- Epictetus What aid is there against a habit? Practice its opposite.
- Epictetus What comes from these teachings? The finest reward of genuine learning: calm, courage, and liberty. Do not accept the…
- Epictetus What makes a person unimpeded and self-directed? Not wealth, office, public rank, or kingship. It is something else:…
- Epictetus When a child grips too many sweets in a narrow jar, the fist cannot come out and the child cries. Let go of a few, and…
- Epictetus When a painful impression comes, say: you are only an impression, not necessarily what you seem. Test whether it…
- Epictetus When attention slips, do not assume you can recover it at will. Though error is unavoidable, keep striving not to let…
- Epictetus When caution is directed toward one's own judgments and actions, one also gains the power to avoid harm. But when…
- Epictetus When I encounter someone anxious, I ask what they are seeking. If they sought nothing beyond their own power, what…
- Epictetus When pleasure presents itself, do not be swept away. Delay your response. Consider both the enjoyment now and the…
- Epictetus When troubling news reaches you, remember that no report can damage your power of choice. It may tell you of death;…
- Epictetus Who is unconquerable? The person whom nothing outside a considered choice can throw into disorder.
- Epictetus Why call on heaven to remove your trouble? Were you not given hands? Wipe your own nose rather than hunting for…
- Epictetus You may restrain my body, but not even the highest god can destroy my power to choose.
- Epictetus You must conform to rules, submit to a diet, refrain from dainties; exercise your body, whether you choose it or not,…
- Epictetus You would rage if a stranger handed your body to another; yet you give your mind to every passerby to trouble and…
- Marcus Aurelius A black or malign disposition, an effeminate disposition; an hard inexorable disposition, a wild inhuman disposition,…
- Marcus Aurelius A lamp keeps giving light until its oil is gone. Why should your truthfulness, justice, and self-command not shine…
- Marcus Aurelius A man without ever the least appearance of anger, or any other passion; able at the same time most exactly to observe…
- Marcus Aurelius After doing well and helping another, why seek a third reward—praise for the act or a favor returned?
- Marcus Aurelius After thou shalt rightly have considered these things with thyself; fancy not anything else in the world any more to…
- Marcus Aurelius Again, consider now the times of Trajan. There likewise thou seest the very self-same things, and that age also is now…
- Marcus Aurelius Again, how he was no backbiter, nor easily frightened, nor suspicious, and in his language free from all affectation…
- Marcus Aurelius All those things, for matter of experience are usual and ordinary; for their continuance but for a day; and for their…
- Marcus Aurelius Anger and grief often harm us more than the events that first stirred them.
- Marcus Aurelius Another cause succeedeth, and undertakes the work, and in time brings a child (that wonderful effect from such a…
- Marcus Aurelius As for the use of thy dogmata, thou must carry thyself in the practice of them, rather like unto a pancratiastes, or…
- Marcus Aurelius As long as the foot doth that which belongeth unto it to do, and the hand that which belongs unto it, their labour,…
- Marcus Aurelius As one that tosseth up a ball. And what is a ball the better, if the motion of it be upwards; or the worse if it be…
- Marcus Aurelius As one who had lived, and were now to die by right, whatsoever is yet remaining, bestow that wholly as a gracious…
- Marcus Aurelius As one who is altogether governed by nature, let it be thy care to observe what it is that thy nature in general doth…
- Marcus Aurelius As the ordinary shows of the theatre and of other such places, when thou art presented with them, affect thee; as the…
- Marcus Aurelius As thou dost purpose to live, when thou hast retired thyself to some such place, where neither roarer nor harlot is:…
- Marcus Aurelius As thou thyself, whoever thou art, were made for the perfection and consummation, being a member of it, of a common…
- Marcus Aurelius At every moment keep your mind firmly on the work before you, as a human being, doing it with plain dignity, care,…
- Marcus Aurelius Attend to what lies before you: the principle involved, the work required, or the impression being presented.
- Marcus Aurelius Be it all one unto thee, whether half frozen or well warm; whether only slumbering, or after a full sleep; whether…
- Marcus Aurelius Be it so: yet there be many other good things, for the want of which thou canst not plead the want or natural ability.…
- Marcus Aurelius Be not angry neither with him whose breath, neither with him whose arm holes, are offensive. What can he do? such is…
- Marcus Aurelius Be not deceived; for thou shalt never live to read thy moral commentaries, nor the acts of the famous Romans and…
- Marcus Aurelius Be not therefore ashamed, whensoever thou must use the help of others. For whatsoever it be that lieth upon thee to…
- Marcus Aurelius Build your life deed by deed, satisfied when each reaches its proper end. If an outward obstacle appears, it cannot…
- Marcus Aurelius But whatsoever it is that thou art about, remember to call upon the Gods. And as for the time how long thou shalt live…
- Marcus Aurelius By one action judge of the rest: this bathing which usually takes up so much of our time, what is it? Oil, sweat,…
- Marcus Aurelius Changing your view and accepting correction are acts of free will. The action remains yours, guided by your purpose,…
- Marcus Aurelius Consider how many different things, whether they concern our bodies, or our souls, in a moment of time come to pass in…
- Marcus Aurelius Consider with thyself how man, and by what part of his, is joined unto God, and how that part of man is affected, when…
- Marcus Aurelius Contract thy whole life to the measure and proportion of one single action. And if in every particular action thou…
- Marcus Aurelius Dig within yourself: there is a spring of goodness there, ready to flow whenever you continue digging.
- Marcus Aurelius Do not approach philosophy like a strict overseer. Go to it as the sick go for treatment: for sore eyes, a burn, or a…
- Marcus Aurelius Do not be ashamed to need assistance. You have a duty like a soldier at the wall; if you are hurt and cannot climb…
- Marcus Aurelius Do not delay in action, muddle speech, scatter thought, make your soul either passive or hostile, or fill life…
- Marcus Aurelius Do not evade the work your role requires, whether cold or tired, praised or insulted, dying or distracted. Even death…
- Marcus Aurelius Do not grieve over it, and do not let yourself be thrown into turmoil.
- Marcus Aurelius Do not let the whole course of your life overwhelm you. Stay with the present hardship and ask why it is truly…
- Marcus Aurelius Do nothing against thy will, nor contrary to the community, nor without due examination, nor with reluctancy. Affect…
- Marcus Aurelius Do nothing grudgingly or selfishly; avoid needless display, excess speech, and dependence on another's support.
- Marcus Aurelius Do what nature asks of you now, if it lies in your power. Do not wait to be noticed or for an ideal commonwealth;…
- Marcus Aurelius Dost thou not see, how even those that profess mechanic arts, though in some respect they be no better than mere…
- Marcus Aurelius Doth either the sun take upon him to do that which belongs to the rain? or his son Aesculapius that, which unto the…
- Marcus Aurelius Either this world is a κόσμος, or comely piece, because all disposed and governed by certain order: or if it be a…
- Marcus Aurelius Enough of this wretched complaining. Stop idling. What troubles you? Look at the cause or at the matter itself. As for…
- Marcus Aurelius Even as if any of the gods should tell thee, Thou shalt certainly die to-morrow, or next day, thou wouldst not, except…
- Marcus Aurelius Ever consider and think upon the world as being but one living substance, and having but one soul, and how all things…
- Marcus Aurelius Ever to represent unto thyself; and to set before thee, both the general age and time of the world, and the whole…
- Marcus Aurelius Every soul lacks truth unwillingly; the same is true of justice, moderation, and goodwill. Keep this in mind, and you…
- Marcus Aurelius Everything depends on the judgment you attach to it, and that judgment is yours. Remove it when you choose, and you…
- Marcus Aurelius First, do not be shaken. Then look directly at the task, remembering that your aim is to be a good person. Do what…
- Marcus Aurelius For all these things, if once though but for a while, they begin to please, they presently prevail, and pervert a…
- Marcus Aurelius For peace, do not merely do fewer things; do what a rational, social being must do, and do it well. Restrain needless…
- Marcus Aurelius For without relation unto God, thou shalt never speed in any worldly actions; nor on the other side in any divine,…
- Marcus Aurelius Forbear henceforth to complain of the trouble of a courtly life, either in public before others, or in private by…
- Marcus Aurelius From Rusticus I learned to read with care, not to rest satisfied with a broad, shallow grasp, and not to agree too…
- Marcus Aurelius Getting what you wanted might feel pleasant, but that is why pleasure can mislead. Consider instead the greater goods:…
- Marcus Aurelius Give each action attention in proportion to its value. Then you will not grow weary by spending more effort than…
- Marcus Aurelius Hast thou reason? I have. Why then makest thou not use of it? For if thy reason do her part, what more canst thou…
- Marcus Aurelius Have I done anything charitably? then am I benefited by it. See that this upon all occasions may present itself unto…
- Marcus Aurelius Herein doth consist happiness of life, for a man to know thoroughly the true nature of everything; what is the matter,…
- Marcus Aurelius Honour that which is chiefest and most powerful in the world, and that is it, which makes use of all things, and…
- Marcus Aurelius How clearly doth it appear unto thee, that no other course of thy life could fit a true philosopher's practice better,…
- Marcus Aurelius How corrupt to announce, “I will speak frankly.” Your sincerity should need no notice; it should be visible in your…
- Marcus Aurelius How does your ruling mind govern itself? Everything else, whether chosen or not, is merely smoke and a lifeless thing…
- Marcus Aurelius How easy a thing is it for a man to put off from him all turbulent adventitious imaginations, and presently to be in…
- Marcus Aurelius How happy is man in this his power that hath been granted unto him: that he needs not do anything but what God shall…
- Marcus Aurelius How ridiculous and strange is he, that wonders at anything that happens in this life in the ordinary course of nature!
- Marcus Aurelius Human joy lies in proper human activity: kindness toward others, resistance to mere appetite, trustworthy judgment,…
- Marcus Aurelius I consist of body and soul. Unto my body all things are indifferent, for of itself it cannot affect one thing more…
- Marcus Aurelius If a cucumber is bitter, discard it. If thorns block the way, go around them. Why ask why such irritations exist?…
- Marcus Aurelius if any should put this question unto thee, how this word Antoninus is written, wouldst thou not presently fix thine…
- Marcus Aurelius If it were that thou hadst at one time both a stepmother, and a natural mother living, thou wouldst honour and respect…
- Marcus Aurelius If my present apprehension of the object be right, and my present action charitable, and this, towards whatsoever doth…
- Marcus Aurelius If once round and solid, there is no fear that ever it will change.
- Marcus Aurelius If pain be an evil, either it is in regard of the body; (and that cannot be, because the body of itself is altogether…
- Marcus Aurelius If people do not marvel at your intelligence, let it be. You possess many qualities no birth can deny: honesty,…
- Marcus Aurelius If someone scorns me, that is their concern. Mine is to do and say nothing shameful. If someone hates me, I will…
- Marcus Aurelius If this neither be my wicked act, nor an act anyways depending from any wickedness of mine, and that by it the public…
- Marcus Aurelius If thou shalt intend that which is present, following the rule of right and reason carefully, solidly, meekly, and…
- Marcus Aurelius If you find anything in human life better than justice, truth, self-command, and courage—better than a mind sufficient…
- Marcus Aurelius In matter of writing or reading thou must needs be taught before thou can do either: much more in matter of life. 'For…
- Marcus Aurelius 'In my sickness' (saith Epicurus of himself:) 'my discourses were not concerning the nature of my disease, neither was…
- Marcus Aurelius In the ancient mystical letters of the Ephesians, there was an item, that a man should always have in his mind some…
- Marcus Aurelius In the morning as soon as thou art awaked, when thy judgment, before either thy affections, or external objects have…
- Marcus Aurelius In the whole constitution of man, I see not any virtue contrary to justice, whereby it may be resisted and opposed.…
- Marcus Aurelius Injustice often appears not only in what you do, but in what you fail to do.
- Marcus Aurelius Is it not a cruel thing to forbid men to affect those things, which they conceive to agree best with their own…
- Marcus Aurelius Is it not for that respect especially, that pleasure itself is to so many men's hurt and overthrow, most prevalent,…
- Marcus Aurelius It is all one to see these things for a hundred of years together or but for three years.
- Marcus Aurelius It is common to all trades and professions to mind and intend that only, which now they are about, and the instrument…
- Marcus Aurelius It is high time for thee, to understand that there is somewhat in thee, better and more divine than either thy…
- Marcus Aurelius It is in thy power absolutely to exclude all manner of conceit and opinion, as concerning this matter; and by the same…
- Marcus Aurelius It is not by way of any suspicious indignation, but by way of gentle and friendly declination. Keep the same mind and…
- Marcus Aurelius It is not possible that any nature should be inferior unto art, since that all arts imitate nature. If this be so;…
- Marcus Aurelius It is that which many time and often thou hast already seen and known in the world. And so oft as anything doth happen…
- Marcus Aurelius Labour not as one to whom it is appointed to be wretched, nor as one that either would be pitied, or admired; but let…
- Marcus Aurelius Let him look to that. He is master of his own disposition, and of his own operation. I for my part am in the meantime…
- Marcus Aurelius Let it be thy earnest and incessant care as a Roman and a man to perform whatsoever it is that thou art about, with…
- Marcus Aurelius Let not that chief commanding part of thy soul be ever subject to any variation through any corporal either pain or…
- Marcus Aurelius Let nothing be done rashly, and at random, but all things according to the most exact and perfect rules of art.
- Marcus Aurelius Let this be thy only joy, and thy only comfort, from one sociable kind action without intermission to pass unto…
- Marcus Aurelius Let this suffice. Add not presently speaking unto thyself, What serve these things for in the world? For, this, one…
- Marcus Aurelius Let thy course ever be the most compendious way. The most compendious, is that which is according to nature: that is,…
- Marcus Aurelius Let thy thoughts ever run upon them, who once for some one thing or other, were moved with extraordinary indignation;…
- Marcus Aurelius Living resembles wrestling more than dancing, for it demands readiness to meet and withstand sudden, unforeseen attacks.
- Marcus Aurelius Look carefully at the supposed pleasures of thieves, predators, murderers, and tyrants.
- Marcus Aurelius Love the modest craft you have learned and find rest in it. Entrust the rest to the gods, making yourself neither…
- Marcus Aurelius Man, God, the world, every one in their kind, bear some fruits. All things have their proper time to bear. Though by…
- Marcus Aurelius Meditate often upon the connection of all things in the world; and upon the mutual relation that they have one unto…
- Marcus Aurelius Nature gives rational beings the power to turn obstacles and opposition toward their purpose; each person can make a…
- Marcus Aurelius Nature hath of that also, as well as of eating and drinking, allowed thee a certain stint. But thou guest beyond thy…
- Marcus Aurelius Never wont to use the baths at unseasonable hours; no builder; never curious, or solicitous, either about his meat, or…
- Marcus Aurelius Not as though thou hadst thousands of years to live. Death hangs over thee: whilst yet thou livest, whilst thou…
- Marcus Aurelius Not to be slack and negligent; or loose, and wanton in thy actions; nor contentious, and troublesome in thy…
- Marcus Aurelius Not to wander out of the way, but upon every motion and desire, to perform that which is just: and ever to be careful…
- Marcus Aurelius Nothing can block the purposes of your mind. Fire, weapons, rulers, insults, and every other threat leave it untouched.
- Marcus Aurelius Now much time and leisure doth he gain, who is not curious to know what his neighbour hath said, or hath done, or hath…
- Marcus Aurelius O man! what ado doest thou keep? Do what thy nature doth now require. Resolve upon it, if thou mayest: and take no…
- Marcus Aurelius Observe the stars in their courses as though you moved with them; reflect on nature's changes, for this clears away…
- Marcus Aurelius Of all my thoughts and cares, one only thing shall be the object, that I myself do nothing which to the proper…
- Marcus Aurelius Of these the two former, are so far forth thine, as that thou art bound to take care for them. But the third alone is…
- Marcus Aurelius Of things that are external, happen what will to that which can suffer by external accidents. Those things that suffer…
- Marcus Aurelius One who follows reason in everything is both at ease and ready for action—cheerful and composed together.
- Marcus Aurelius Or if thou do, return unto them again with all possible speed. And remember, that the word ἔμφρων notes unto thee an…
- Marcus Aurelius Others may block an act, but not your purpose or disposition. The mind can adapt, making a barrier serve its aim: what…
- Marcus Aurelius People may oppose your rational path but cannot prevent sound action. Do not let them drive away your goodwill; keep…
- Marcus Aurelius People neglect the praise of those whose lives they share, yet hunger for applause from generations they will never…
- Marcus Aurelius People seek refuge in the country, at the shore, and in the hills; yet at any moment they may withdraw into…
- Marcus Aurelius Pray in another way: not to possess what you crave, but to be free of the craving; not for another's ruin, but for…
- Marcus Aurelius Reflect often on how all things are connected and depend on one another. They are woven together, each following…
- Marcus Aurelius Repentance is an inward and self-reprehension for the neglect or omission of somewhat that was profitable. Now…
- Marcus Aurelius Sayest thou unto that rational part, Thou art dead; corruption hath taken hold on thee? Doth it then also void…
- Marcus Aurelius Shall I do it? I will; so the end of my action be to do good unto men. Doth anything by way of cross or adversity…
- Marcus Aurelius Skill at defeating an opponent does not make someone more civic-minded, modest, prepared for hardship, or patient with…
- Marcus Aurelius So may every reasonable creature, what crosses and impediments soever it meets with in the course of this mortal life,…
- Marcus Aurelius Spectacle, strife, fright, dullness, and servility destroy our principles whenever the mind receives them without…
- Marcus Aurelius Straight of itself, not made straight.
- Marcus Aurelius Take me and throw me where thou wilt: I am indifferent. For there also I shall have that spirit which is within me…
- Marcus Aurelius That is best for every one, that the common nature of all doth send unto every one, and then is it best, when she doth…
- Marcus Aurelius That rational essence by which the universe is governed, is for community and society; and therefore hath it both made…
- Marcus Aurelius That which is not good for the bee-hive, cannot be good for the bee.
- Marcus Aurelius That which most men would think themselves most happy for, and would prefer before all things, if the Gods would grant…
- Marcus Aurelius The ambitious supposeth another man's act, praise and applause, to be his own happiness; the voluptuous his own sense…
- Marcus Aurelius The art of true living in this world is more like a wrestler's, than a dancer's practice. For in this they both agree,…
- Marcus Aurelius The Chaldeans and Astrologians having foretold the deaths of divers, were afterwards themselves surprised by the…
- Marcus Aurelius The completed character spends each day as a last one: without frenzy, idleness, or pretense.
- Marcus Aurelius The earth, saith the poet, doth often long after the rain. So is the glorious sky often as desirous to fall upon the…
- Marcus Aurelius The end and object of a rational constitution is, to do nothing rashly, to be kindly affected towards men, and in all…
- Marcus Aurelius The final ends and consummations of actions are nothing at all to a man's nature. The end therefore of a man, or the…
- Marcus Aurelius The finest revenge is refusing to become like the one who wronged you.
- Marcus Aurelius The matter itself, of which the universe doth consist, is of itself very tractable and pliable. That rational essence…
- Marcus Aurelius The most weighty and serious, if rightly esteemed, but as puppies, biting one another: or untoward children, now…
- Marcus Aurelius The motion of the mind is not as the motion of a dart. For the mind when it is wary and cautelous, and by way of…
- Marcus Aurelius The next, that all these things, which now thou seest, shall within a very little while be changed, and be no more:…
- Marcus Aurelius The Pythagoreans were wont betimes in the morning the first thing they did, to look up unto the heavens, to put…
- Marcus Aurelius The rational commanding part, as it alone can stir up and turn itself; so it maketh both itself to be, and everything…
- Marcus Aurelius The second is, that he yield not to any lusts and motions of the flesh. For it is the part and privilege of the…
- Marcus Aurelius The Second to the first original cause, God, from whom originally proceeds whatsoever doth happen in the world. The…
- Marcus Aurelius The soul is shaped by the thoughts it repeatedly entertains, since such ideas give it its color.
- Marcus Aurelius The sun seemeth to be shed abroad. And indeed it is diffused but not effused. For that diffusion of it is a τάσις or…
- Marcus Aurelius The whole space of any man's life, is but little; and as little as it is, with what troubles, with what manner of…
- Marcus Aurelius There by thyself to put these questions to thyself or to enter in these considerations: What is my chief and principal…
- Marcus Aurelius There is, who without so much as a coat; and there is, who without so much as a book, doth put philosophy in practice.…
- Marcus Aurelius These two rules, thou must have always in a readiness. First, do nothing at all, but what reason proceeding from that…
- Marcus Aurelius They will say commonly, Meddle not with many things, if thou wilt live cheerfully. Certainly there is nothing better,…
- Marcus Aurelius Things pursued or avoided do not rush at you; in a sense you move toward them. Keep your judgment steady, and they too…
- Marcus Aurelius Thou mayest always speed, if thou wilt but make choice of the right way; if in the course both of thine opinions and…
- Marcus Aurelius Thou must be like a promontory of the sea, against which though the waves beat continually, yet it both itself stands,…
- Marcus Aurelius Thou must hasten therefore; not only because thou art every day nearer unto death than other, but also because that…
- Marcus Aurelius Thou must use thyself also to keep thy body fixed and steady; free from all loose fluctuant either motion, or posture.…
- Marcus Aurelius To be cheerful, and to stand in no need, either of other men's help or attendance, or of that rest and tranquillity,…
- Marcus Aurelius To desire things impossible is the part of a mad man. But it is a thing impossible, that wicked man should not commit…
- Marcus Aurelius To go on straight, whither right and reason directed him, and by so doing to follow God, was the only thing that he…
- Marcus Aurelius To live with the Gods. He liveth with the Gods, who at all times affords unto them the spectacle of a soul, both…
- Marcus Aurelius To righteousness, in speaking the truth freely, and without ambiguity; and in doing all things justly and discreetly.…
- Marcus Aurelius To steal, to sow, to buy, to be at rest, to see what is to be done (which is not seen by the eyes, but by another kind…
- Marcus Aurelius To suffer change can be no hurt; as no benefit it is, by change to attain to being. The age and time of the world is…
- Marcus Aurelius To them that are sick of the jaundice, honey seems bitter; and to them that are bitten by a mad dog, the water…
- Marcus Aurelius To them that ask thee, Where hast thou seen the Gods, or how knowest thou certainly that there be Gods, that thou art…
- Marcus Aurelius To these ever-present helps and mementoes, let one more be added, ever to make a particular description and…
- Marcus Aurelius Today I escaped pressure—or rather cast it out—for it was not in events but in the judgments I made about them.
- Marcus Aurelius Toys and fooleries at home, wars abroad: sometimes terror, sometimes torpor, or stupid sloth: this is thy daily…
- Marcus Aurelius Under, above, and about, are the motions of the elements; but the motion of virtue, is none of those motions, but is…
- Marcus Aurelius Use thyself when any man speaks unto thee, so to hearken unto him, as that in the interim thou give not way to any…
- Marcus Aurelius We all work to one effect, some willingly, and with a rational apprehension of what we do: others without any such…
- Marcus Aurelius What a subject, and what a course of life is it, that thou doest so much desire to be rid of. For all these things,…
- Marcus Aurelius What art and profession soever thou hast learned, endeavour to affect it, and comfort thyself in it; and pass the…
- Marcus Aurelius What harms the hive cannot benefit the bee.
- Marcus Aurelius What is that that is slow, and yet quick? merry, and yet grave? He that in all things doth follow reason for his guide.
- Marcus Aurelius What is the use that now at this present I make of my soul? Thus from time to time and upon all occasions thou must…
- Marcus Aurelius What work are you here to do? To become a decent human being.
- Marcus Aurelius Whatever others say or do, I am bound to goodness—like gold or an emerald that keeps its own color regardless of what…
- Marcus Aurelius Whatsoever doth happen unto thee, thou art naturally by thy natural constitution either able, or not able to bear. If…
- Marcus Aurelius Whatsoever in any kind doth happen to any one, is expedient to the whole. And thus much to content us might suffice,…
- Marcus Aurelius Whatsoever is expedient unto thee, O World, is expedient unto me; nothing can either be 'unseasonable unto me, or out…
- Marcus Aurelius When another's fault provokes you, turn at once to your own related errors—your attachment to gain, pleasure, or…
- Marcus Aurelius When circumstances throw you into confusion, recover yourself quickly. Do not remain out of rhythm longer than needed;…
- Marcus Aurelius When getting up is difficult, remember that nature made you to work with others. Even animals share sleep; our proper…
- Marcus Aurelius When pain comes, remember it is no disgrace and cannot corrupt your ruling mind or prevent rational, social action. Do…
- Marcus Aurelius When rising feels hard, remember: I am getting up for a human being’s work. Was I made merely to lie warm, or to act…
- Marcus Aurelius When thou art hard to be stirred up and awaked out of thy sleep, admonish thyself and call to mind, that, to perform…
- Marcus Aurelius When thou hast done well, and another is benefited by thy action, must thou like a very fool look for a third thing…
- Marcus Aurelius When thou seest Satyro, think of Socraticus and Eutyches, or Hymen, and when Euphrates, think of Eutychio, and…
- Marcus Aurelius Whensoever by some present hard occurrences thou art constrained to be in some sort troubled and vexed, return unto…
- Marcus Aurelius Wherever one is able to live, one can live well; even in the business of the courts, a good life is possible.
- Marcus Aurelius Whether of those things that happened unto him by God's appointment, he neither did wonder at any when it did happen,…
- Marcus Aurelius Whoever commits injustice injures themselves. The unjust person makes their own character worse.
- Marcus Aurelius Why rage at bad breath or body odor? Such a body produces such effects. If someone can understand their impact, use…
- Marcus Aurelius Why should any of these things that happen externally, so much distract thee? Give thyself leisure to learn some good…
- Marcus Aurelius Why should imprudent unlearned souls trouble that which is both learned, and prudent? And which is that that is so?…
- Marcus Aurelius Why then shouldest thou so earnestly either seek after these things, or fly from them, as though they should endure…
- Marcus Aurelius Will either passengers, or patients, find fault and complain, either the one if they be well carried, or the others if…
- Marcus Aurelius Word after word, every one by itself, must the things that are spoken be conceived and understood; and so the things…
- Marcus Aurelius You can possess now what you pray to gain by a long route, if only you stop withholding it from yourself.
- Marcus Aurelius You have suffered greatly because you would not let your ruling mind perform the work for which it was made. Enough.
- Marcus Aurelius You say fortune once met you everywhere. Yet fortunate people create their own fortune through a well-ordered soul,…
- Marcus Aurelius You will sooner find earth separated from the ground than a human being wholly apart from other people.
- Marcus Aurelius Your long wandering proves that the art of living was not found in logic, wealth, reputation, or pleasure. It lies in…
- Marcus Aurelius Your ruling mind is unconquerable when it relies on itself and refuses what it judges contrary to its will. With…
- Musonius Rufus A worthy ruler is necessarily philosophical, and the true philosopher has a kingly character from the beginning.
- Musonius Rufus How could banishment prevent a person from cultivating themselves or attaining virtue, when exile has never barred…
- Musonius Rufus I would rather be ill than live in luxury: illness harms the body, but luxury weakens body and soul, breeding greed,…
- Musonius Rufus In most matters we respond to circumstances not from sound principles but from miserable habit. Since this is so, the…
- Musonius Rufus It is better to earn a reputation for benefiting many than for lavish living; spending on people is worthier than…
- Musonius Rufus Philosophy is not a matter of appearance; it is attentiveness to what matters and faithful care for it.
- Musonius Rufus When asked whether virtue comes better through teaching or habit—teaching being sound principles and habit being…
- Seneca A calm mind in adversity strips misfortune of much of its force and weight.
- Seneca A life without an aim wanders. Once an aim is set, principles are required; otherwise conduct becomes hesitant,…
- Seneca Accustom yourself to meals without display, fewer attendants, clothing for use, and a humbler home.
- Seneca Add to this that, according to the doctrine of Chrysippus, a man may live at leisure: I do not say that he ought to…
- Seneca All life is slavery: let each man therefore reconcile himself to his lot, complain of it as little as possible, and…
- Seneca All our senses should be educated into strength: they are naturally able to endure much, provided that the spirit…
- Seneca Among these and in the first place must be ranked that thrill of the mind which seizes us at the thought of…
- Seneca Anger, therefore, is not useful even in wars or battles: for it is prone to rashness, and while trying to bring others…
- Seneca Are you not embarrassed to give wisdom only the scraps of life that business has not consumed?
- Seneca Be assured that the same rule applies both to public and private life: simple and manageable undertakings proceed…
- Seneca Be assured that the same thing would be the case if no one’s offence is pardoned: it will quickly be discovered how…
- Seneca Be assured, when you see the Forum crowded with a multitude, 83the Saepta swarming with people, or the great Circus,…
- Seneca Believe me: true joy is a weighty matter. Can anyone face death, poverty, restrained pleasure, and pain with ease…
- Seneca Circumstances mislead us, so judge them carefully. We often choose evil before good and desire what contradicts our…
- Seneca Clemency, then, makes princes safer as well as more respected, and is a glory to empires besides being their most…
- Seneca Consequently, the empire of the world has almost always remained in the hands of those nations who enjoy a milder…
- Seneca Consider what we chase so fiercely: little of it is useful; much is needless, and much else is worth far less than it…
- Seneca Disaster weighs more when it surprises us; the unexpected always deepens pain. Let nothing be wholly unforeseen:…
- Seneca Do not envy the person always displaying rank or fame; such prizes are purchased with life, and many reach the summit…
- Seneca Even Caesar, who may do all things, may not do many things for this very reason: his watchfulness protects all men’s…
- Seneca For this reason we say that nothing comes upon the wise contrary to expectation.
- Seneca Fortune overwhelms no one who has not first trusted her too much. The person who remains modest in prosperity is not…
- Seneca Fortune's reach is shorter than we imagine; it besieges only those who cling to it. Let us withdraw from her as far as…
- Seneca Furthermore, that you may know in what manner passions begin and swell and gain spirit, learn that the first emotion…
- Seneca Give the mind rest: after a break it returns stronger and sharper. Constant labor dulls and weakens the rational soul.
- Seneca Good fortune can reach even the humble and untalented. Greatness belongs to the one who overcomes the shocks and…
- Seneca Greed has no point of enough, while nature is satisfied with little. Exile is therefore no calamity: no land is so…
- Seneca Have we got rid of the trouble of accusation? then we begin that of judging. Has a man ceased to be a judge? then he…
- Seneca Hecato says: no herbs, potions, or spells are needed for this charm—if you want love, begin by loving.
- Seneca Hence it is that we call some regions wet or dry, warm or cold. The same distinctions apply likewise to animals and…
- Seneca Heraclitus wept at public life, while Democritus laughed at it. We should bear human affairs lightly; it is more…
- Seneca How many people have consumed your life while you failed to notice the loss? How much went to empty sorrow, foolish…
- Seneca How shameful when an aged advocate dies in court, still pleading for strangers and chasing the praise of an uninformed…
- Seneca I call you unfortunate because you have met no adversity. You have gone through life without a rival, so neither you…
- Seneca I do not praise those who rush into life's torrent and wrestle daily with hardship by choice. A wise person can endure…
- Seneca I was wrecked before I sailed; the voyage taught me how much is unnecessary and how readily we can release it when…
- Seneca If trained to do so, they are just as able to endure sorrow or labour. Ye good gods, do I say this in that very city…
- Seneca If you were to bring to me all the money from all our mines, which we are at this moment sinking, if you were to bring…
- Seneca In the same way cheerful pursuits soothe unhealthy minds. We must avoid law courts, pleadings, verdicts, and…
- Seneca It accords with nature to love our friends and rejoice at their progress as though it were our own. Without this…
- Seneca It is above all things necessary to form a true estimate of oneself, because as a rule we think that we can do more…
- Seneca It is hard, no doubt, for a mind which has received so rude a shock to betake itself so quickly to these livelier…
- Seneca It is the privilege of a tranquil and peaceful mind to review all the parts of its life: but the minds of busy men are…
- Seneca Keep a benefit as one keeps treasure buried for a time, drawing on it when needed. Nature calls us to help all people;…
- Seneca King Cambyses was excessively addicted to wine. Praexaspes was the only one of his closest friends who advised him to…
- Seneca Leisure without learning is death: a living person's grave.
- Seneca Let every effort aim at something and keep that purpose in sight. People are not troubled by activity itself, but by…
- Seneca Let Fate meet us ready and at work. Greatness belongs to the soul that yields to the world's order; weakness complains…
- Seneca Let no one take even one day from me unless the exchange is worth the cost.
- Seneca Let us conceal its symptoms, and as far as possible keep it secret and hidden. It will give us great trouble to do…
- Seneca Let us differ inwardly in every way, while outwardly our appearance remains in harmony with those around us.
- Seneca Let us now prove what we said before: nay, who will not think this proved if he bethinks himself how great a passion…
- Seneca Let us take examples for great kingdoms from smaller ones. There are many forms of royalty: a prince reigns over his…
- Seneca Let your own goodness of heart be gradually spread and diffused throughout the whole body of the empire, and all parts…
- Seneca Life has no sound direction, and misery has no end, when we allow fear to rule.
- Seneca Life is not too brief; we waste much of it. It is ample for great work when used well, but luxury and neglect make it…
- Seneca Life's many hardships teach the lesson of silence.
- Seneca Make yourself as grateful as you can. Gratitude benefits us greatly and returns its payment to the giver.
- Seneca Many faults would be avoided if a respected witness stood beside us as we began to err. Let the soul keep an example…
- Seneca Meaningful work feeds a noble mind.
- Seneca Men set the greatest store upon presents or pensions, and hire out their work, their services, or their care in order…
- Seneca Men therefore love their own safety, when they draw up vast legions in battle on behalf of one man, when they rush to…
- Seneca Nevertheless Bibulus, who during the whole of his year of office had remained hidden in his house, to cast reproach…
- Seneca No one can obtain every object of desire. But each of us can decline to crave what is absent and gladly use what is…
- Seneca No vice begins without an excuse, and at first it is modest and easy to restrain. Left alone, it spreads. Every…
- Seneca Nothing honorable is done unwillingly or by force; every noble act is freely chosen.
- Seneca Nothing, however, will be of so much service as to consider, first, the hideousness, and, secondly, the danger of…
- Seneca Philosophy asks for a simple life, not a punishing one; simplicity need not be harsh or crude.
- Seneca Philosophy is no performance for display. It deals in deeds, orders the soul and life, directs action, and guides us…
- Seneca Plato, Zeno, Chrysippus, and many other Stoics spoke well. People make such words their own by doing what they have…
- Seneca Set aside distractions and give yourself fully to this purpose before time's swift course leaves you behind. Welcome…
- Seneca Show me one who is not enslaved: one serves lust, another money, another rank, and all serve fear. No bondage is more…
- Seneca Show why the wise avoid drunkenness by its ugly results, not by speeches alone. Pleasures that exceed measure readily…
- Seneca Some are brought into this condition by disease or bodily injury, others by hard work, long watching, nights of…
- Seneca Some gifted minds grasp virtue quickly or generate it themselves. Others, dulled by poor habits, need persistent…
- Seneca Some men’s leisure is busy: in their country house or on their couch, in complete solitude, even though they have…
- Seneca Some people, through too little effort rather than inconsistency, are so unsettled that they do not live as they wish;…
- Seneca Some qualities cannot be separated from some others: they cling together; are indivisible. Dull minds, tending to…
- Seneca Sorrow is awkward at reviewing the position of affairs, at devising useful expedients, avoiding dangerous courses, and…
- Seneca Take unhurried walks outdoors, so the open air and deep breath may restore and feed the mind.
- Seneca Teach me to resemble Odysseus: to love home, spouse, and father, and after shipwreck still steer toward honorable ends.
- Seneca Test your spirit by sometimes accepting scant food and plain clothing, then ask whether this is the evil you feared.…
- Seneca The good person does what is honorable despite labor, injury, or danger, and refuses what is shameful despite profit,…
- Seneca The greatest teachers divide philosophy into moral, natural, and rational study. Moral study orders the soul; natural…
- Seneca The happy man, therefore, is he who can make a right judgment in all things: he is happy who in his present…
- Seneca The hardness of flint is known to none so well as to those who strike it. I offer myself to all attacks, like some…
- Seneca The higher region of the universe, being more excellently ordered and near to the stars, is never gathered into…
- Seneca The maker of the world gave us what is needed to live well, not to live lavishly. What serves us is close at hand;…
- Seneca The mind can carry out whatever orders it gives itself: some have succeeded in never smiling: some have forbidden…
- Seneca The next step is to see whether an alteration in their amount will be of service. If neither alteration of the order…
- Seneca The position of all busy men is unhappy, but most unhappy of all is that of those who do not even labour at their own…
- Seneca The rational soul's chronic diseases are hardened faults such as greed and ambition: they twist judgment until mildly…
- Seneca The reasoning soul is stronger than every turn of fortune. From within itself it directs its life and makes it happy…
- Seneca The services of a good citizen are never thrown away: he does good by being heard and seen, by his expression, his…
- Seneca The soul may be a ruler or a tyrant. When it honors what is good, it cares for the body and gives no shameful…
- Seneca The two sects of Epicureans and Stoics differ widely in most respects, and on this point among the rest, nevertheless,…
- Seneca The whole house mourned for the leisure of its old master, and did not lay aside its mourning until his work was…
- Seneca The wise man will never cease to be angry, if he once begins, so full is every place of vices and crimes. More evil is…
- Seneca The wise person loses nothing, for all that is truly theirs is stored in themselves. Their goods rest in virtue,…
- Seneca The wretched man did not lose his readiness of speech; his face did not change. “Every kind of dinner,” said he, “is…
- Seneca The wrongs of the powerful must not only be borne, but borne with a cheerful countenance: they will repeat the wrong…
- Seneca True happiness, therefore, consists in virtue: and what will this virtue bid you do? Not to think anything bad or good…
- Seneca Unable to serve in one public role, serve in another. If speech is denied, offer a quiet example. If civic duties are…
- Seneca Virtue is the sole good, and no secure good exists apart from it. Virtue belongs to our rational part: firm, truthful…
- Seneca We guard our property fiercely yet surrender our lives to others. Be most sparing with time, the one possession that…
- Seneca We must abandon many things we call good but have become dependent on. Otherwise courage withers, for it needs…
- Seneca We must limit the running to and fro which most men practise, rambling about houses, theatres, and market-places. They…
- Seneca What are we to say to the argument that, if anger were a good thing it would attach itself to all the best men? Yet…
- Seneca What, too, can be more unworthy of the wise man, than that his passions should depend upon the wickedness of others?…
- Seneca What use are countless books and libraries whose titles one lifetime cannot finish? A learner may be burdened rather…
- Seneca Whatever remains to be done, virtue meets with courage and speed. It is foolish to undertake work grudgingly, sending…
- Seneca When great and kinglike riches fall into the hands of a bad master, they are dispersed straightway, but even a…
- Seneca When they are on a journey their baggage is cut down, whenever they are obliged to travel fast their train of…
- Seneca Whenever you are engaged in other pursuits your mind will be relieved from its burden: at present you keep watch over…
- Seneca Whoever uses philosophy to heal the self becomes high-minded, confident, and hard to defeat; their stature grows as…
- Seneca Why be indignant? Why protest? This is the task for which we are made.
- Seneca Why make misfortune heavier by lamenting it? It is the stronger course to meet adversity directly. The more precarious…
- Seneca Will any one give this passion as an assistant and companion to virtue, although it disturbs calm reason, without…
- Seneca Will you follow your predecessors? Certainly—but if I discover a path shorter and smoother, I will make use of it.…
- Seneca Work through your troubles: difficult times can be eased, narrow passages opened, and heavy burdens lightened by…
- Seneca You 158should approach him in different ways and in a compliant fashion, unless perchance you be so great a personage…
- Seneca You are not traveling but drifting from place to place, though the good life you seek is available everywhere. Even…
- Seneca You ask me, whither does all this tend? To prove, I answer, that no one should imagine himself to be safe from anger,…
- Seneca You ask what difference there is between them? All that there is between two very brave gladiators, one of whom…
- Seneca You cannot find any one who wants to distribute his money; yet among how many people does every one distribute his…
- Seneca You cannot stray away from your position; it besets you, and follows you with mighty pomp wherever you go. This…
- Seneca You cannot tell whether this vice is more execrable or more disgusting. Other vices can be concealed and cherished in…
- Seneca You do not shine outwardly, all your good qualities are turned inwards; even so does the world neglect what lies…
- Seneca You know the taste of wine and spirits. Whether hundreds or thousands of bottles pass through you, you are only a…
- Seneca You must decide whether your disposition is better suited for vigorous action or for tranquil speculation and…
- Seneca You say, “I cannot endure it: injuries are hard to bear.” You lie; for how can any one not be able to bear injury, if…
- Seneca You say that the wise man is not mad, yet you admit that he sometimes loses his reason, talks nonsense, and is driven…
- Seneca You see how free from any mental disturbance a man ought to be who has to weigh and consider all this, when he deals…
- Seneca You should know that good men ought to act in like manner, so as not to fear troubles and difficulties, nor to lament…
- Zeno Better to stumble on your feet than to stumble with your speech.
- Zeno You may seize my body by force, but my mind remains with Stilpo.