“Be content with what you are, and wish not change; nor dread your last day, nor long for it.”
- 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
“Be content with what you are, and wish not change; nor dread your last day, nor long for it.”
Explanation
In this quote, Marcus Aurelius speaks to the Stoic principle of acceptance—both of ourselves and the natural course of our lives. He urges us to be content with our current state, appreciating who we are and where we are, rather than constantly wishing for change or striving to be something we are not. At the same time, Aurelius advises against fear of death or longing for it, as both are forms of attachment to things outside our control. Instead, we should focus on living fully in the present, accepting life as it unfolds, and trusting that we have everything we need in this moment.
Aurelius, who dealt with the responsibilities and pressures of ruling an empire, often reflected on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of maintaining peace of mind through acceptance. This attitude is rooted in the Stoic belief that true happiness and fulfillment come from within—by living in accordance with virtue and reason—rather than constantly seeking external validation or fearing things beyond our control, like death. Today, this quote serves as a reminder to focus on the present moment and embrace life as it is, rather than being consumed by the fear of death or the desire for something different.
In practical terms, this quote encourages us to practice contentment with our current circumstances. For example, instead of wishing for a different job, lifestyle, or appearance, we can focus on appreciating what we have and making the most of our current situation. Likewise, by accepting death as a natural part of life, rather than fearing it or wishing for it to come sooner, we can live with courage and mindfulness, fully embracing each day with peace and purpose. This perspective helps us cultivate a life rooted in inner contentment and resilience.
