W
ILL this querulousness, this murmuring,
this complaining and dissembling never
be at an end? What, then, is it that troubleth
thee? Doth any new thing happen unto thee?
What dost thou so wonder at ? At the cause,
or the matter? Behold either by itself, is either
of that weight and moment indeed? And besides
these, there is not anything. But thy duty towards
the 'gods also, it is time that thou shouldst
acquit thyself of it with more goodness and simplicity.
MARCUS AURELIUS. MEDITATIONS. Book ix. 35.
M
ANY of those things that trouble and
straighten thee, it is in thy power to cut
off, as wholly depending from mere conceit and
opinion, and then thou shalt have room enough.
MARCUS AURELIUS. MEDITATIONS. Book ix. 3.
If we can control how we perceive troubles in our lives, we often find that they are not quite so troublesome. A change of outlook can often act like a virtual room cleansing of our spirit and attitude.
ReplyDeleteLife is what it is and there are circumstances that are beyond our control to stop but we can change our perception of them and find serenity.
Summary: Many of the things that trouble you are in your power to cut off, because they are only your perception and opinion. Marcus Aurelius 9.3.
ReplyDeleteWhat is troubling me? Is it external, and if so, is it in my control? If I have acted virtuously, then those things that happen are inevitable. If I have not, the I must see to my own heart and mind, and regulate them first. Only then can I turn and face the troubles, and I will see that they are challenges and opportunities to test my resolve.