Marcus Aurelius Meditations
Marcus Aurelius: As for thy body, which as a vessel, or…
As for thy body, which as a vessel, or a case, compasseth thee about, and the many and curious instruments that it hath annexed unto it, let them not trouble thy thoughts. For of themselves they are but as a carpenter's axe, but that they are born with us, and naturally sticking unto us.
The passage follows a public-domain translation of Meditations. The reading beside it is ours.
We can become so preoccupied with the body that it takes over the whole inner life. Its appearance, comfort, appetite, energy level, and inevitable changes demand constant commentary. Marcus does not deny that the body matters. It is the instrument through which we work, love, move, and serve. Like any instrument, it deserves care. But it is not the commander. A carpenter does not worship the hammer or hate it when it wears down; he uses it well. Care for your body with food, sleep, movement, medical attention, and reasonable compassion. Then remember that a good life is not measured only by how attractive, painless, or optimized the instrument feels. Today, notice one body-related worry. Take the practical action available, and do not let the worry consume the attention meant for living.
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