Every once in a while you come across someone who says one valuable thing after another. Roman Emperor for 19 years, Marcus Aurelius was the last of the “Five Good Emperors” and is considered the most important of the Stoic philosophers. His words ring true as much today as they likely did when they were first spoken nearly 2,000 years ago.
Here are a few of my favorites:
“If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it.”
“How much more grievous are the consequences of anger than the causes of it.”
“Forward, as occasion offers. Never look round to see whether any shall note it… Be satisfied with success in even the smallest matter, and think that even such a result is no trifle.”
“It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.”
“Let not your mind run on what you lack as much as on what you have already.”
“Men exist for the sake of one another.”
“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”
If each of my readers were to select just one of these pearls of wisdom and live by it for an entire day, the world would receive a valuable dose of sanity.
What are you waiting for?
Gregory Hake 
Great post…immortal words…we’ve been thinking these things for centuries…ours could be the generation that puts them into action. These are ideas worth spreading, thanks.
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What a great idea. I think I will use the one about the consequences of anger. I didn’t know much about Marcus Aurelius, thanks for the link!
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An excellent question, and one that should require no thought, however….so often we find ourselves “holding out” for some change or some perfect set of circumstances when really there is no time like the present for anything and most certainly change, as we are the only ones that can do it regardless of outer circumstances! Thanks, the choice is clearly outlined, and my answer to the question is Absolutely Clear
……Nothing, so Let’s go!
Thanks for the foundational inspiration!
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Love this one: “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”
Thanks!
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Wonderul “mission” – if we choose to accept it –
let’s go forward today each one choosing at least one pearl to focus on so that the world can enjoy a day of sanity!
thanks for jump starting the action ~
Brad
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Amazing quotes! I printed these out to keep on my desk. Thanks!
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I’ve picked one and am going to enjoy the day with a whole new perspective!
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I’m always glad for the sanity your blog promotes!
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