February 25th, 2021
Keep a list before your mind of those who burned with anger and resentment about something, of even the most renowned for success, misfortune, evil deeds, or any special distinction. Then ask yourself, how did that work out? Smoke and dust, the stuff of simple myth trying to be legend…
Marcus Aurelius is providing us a simple reminder to keep our passions in check. In his journal, he reminds himself that even the greatest before him are soon to be forgotten.
If our quest to be the best of what we are drives us to scorn, rage, mania, or pettiness, then we have failed and become victims of our passion. Why spend precious time on this earth enslaved to negative emotions. We should enjoy our time, for our time on this earth is short, and our memories will soon be forgotten.