Meditations by Marcus Aurelius translated by George W. Chrystal (~180) Book 6 Pt 5
Bonus:
Summary: Communism?
Commentary:
42. We're all working towards the universe's purpose.
43. All our work is different, but all towards the same end.
44. The gods have a plan. If not for me specifically, then for the universe that I'm part of. And it must be a good plan. I should do what is best for me, since it will be according to their plan if they made one, and still best if they didn't.
45. Anything that happens to you is for the profit of the whole.
46. All of life is the same. What will the end be like?
47. Think of everyone who is dead, and realize you'll wind up the same.
48. When you want to be happy, think of the good things about the people you know. Nothing makes us happier than the good in others.
49. If you're not upset that you're not bigger, don't be upset you don't live longer. Amounts of matter and time are the same.
50. Try to convince others to support you, but do what is right regardless. If you are obstructed, try to take advantage of it for a virtue.
51. The proud take joy from what others do. The sensualist in what they feel. The wise in their work.
52. You can choose not to make up your mind about things. This can bring peace. Nothing and no one can form your opinion for you.
53. Listen to others and try to understand what they think.
54. What doesn't benefit others cannot benefit you.
55. If you hate the people who give you advice/direction, how will they help you.
56. Most people who have been born are already dead.
57. Being mad makes as much sense as people with rabies hating water.
58. No one can stop you from doing what the universe wants, and nothing can happen to you that isn't part of its plan.
59. Think of what people do. Now think of how dead they'll be.
Marcus Aurelius is pretty collectivist.
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