“Everything that happens happens as it should, and if you observe carefully, you will find this to be so.”
- April 26, 121 – March 17, 180
- Roman Empire
- Roman Emperor
- Influenced by Stoic philosophy, he wrote “Meditations” and practiced ideal governance as a philosophical leader, and was later praised as one of the Five Good Emperors.
Quote
“Everything that happens happens as it should, and if you observe carefully, you will find this to be so.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marcus Aurelius expresses the Stoic belief in cosmic order and the inevitability of events. He suggests that everything that happens, whether good or bad, is part of a larger, divinely organized system that unfolds as it must. Stoicism teaches that we should accept what happens in life, not as a random series of events, but as part of a greater, rational plan. By observing life with a sense of awareness and acceptance, we can see that even difficult situations often serve a purpose, contributing to our growth and understanding.
Aurelius, as a philosopher and ruler, would have been acutely aware of the challenges and uncertainties of his time. Yet, his Stoic beliefs led him to view life as a series of interconnected events, each playing a role in the unfolding of the universe’s rational order. This perspective encourages us to focus on what we can control—our thoughts and responses—and to trust that, even when things seem difficult, there is meaning in what happens. In modern times, this attitude can help us navigate life’s uncertainties with greater resilience and peace.
In practical terms, this quote invites us to practice acceptance in our everyday lives. When faced with a setback or challenge, instead of reacting with frustration or resistance, we can remind ourselves that everything is part of a larger process that contributes to our development. By observing life through this lens, we become more capable of finding meaning in every experience, and we can embrace change and adversity with a sense of purpose and equanimity. This mindset fosters a life where peace and acceptance are central, helping us to live more harmoniously with the flow of life.
