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What Would Stoics Do

Marcus Aurelius · 121–180 CE

Meditations 7.38 — Marcus Aurelius

Translation by George Long (1862)

Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.38

It is not right to vex ourselves at things, For they care nought about it.
— Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.38 · tr. George Long (1862)Read in context →

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Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.38, tr. George Long (1862)

https://whatwouldstoicsdo.com/passage/meditations/7.38

Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, tr. George Long (1862). Text: Standard Ebooks (CC0). Sources and licences

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In plain English

AI-written notes

There is no sense in getting worked up over events and objects, because they do not care about your distress. The upset only hurts you.

Older wording

“vex”
— annoy or upset
“care nought”
— do not care at all

Themes and situations

  • Emotions and the passions
  • Judgements and impressions
  • Peace of mind
  • What is in our control
  • Everyday irritations

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Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.38, tr. George Long (1862)