“Remember that all things have been from eternity, and will be to eternity, and that they are of the same kind with one another, and that it is not possible that one thing should be different from another in a short time and in a long time.”
What this quote means
Marcus Aurelius invites us to consider the eternity and unity of all things, reminding us that events, whether they seem great or small, are part of an unchanging order. This perspective helps us relativize our experiences and see beyond the present moment. It applies when we feel overwhelmed by problems, encouraging us to step back and recognize that nothing is truly new or permanent.
How to apply it daily
When overwhelmed by a problem, remind yourself that generations have had similar experiences. Step back and see your situation in a larger perspective.
Reading guide
Which book should you read to discover Marcus Aurelius?
Our starting point
Discovering Stoicism through short reflections
Meditations
The most direct way to encounter the themes behind the quotes: attention, duty, and control over what depends on us.
- Level
- Intermediate
- Reading time
- 4–6 hours, best read slowly
- Formats to compare
- Print · Ebook · Audio
Merchant links help compare editions. Recommendations are editorially independent.
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