“Here is the rule to remember in the future, When anything tempts you to be bitter: not, ‘This is a misfortune’ but ‘To bear this worthily is good fortune.'”
- 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
“Here is the rule to remember in the future, When anything tempts you to be bitter: not, ‘This is a misfortune’ but ‘To bear this worthily is good fortune.'”
Explanation
Marcus Aurelius offers a powerful Stoic approach to adversity in this quote. Instead of viewing challenges as misfortunes, he encourages us to see the opportunity in facing difficulties with virtue and grace. The key idea is that the real misfortune is not the external event itself, but how we choose to respond to it. By bearing hardship with dignity and strength, we transform the situation into something that aligns with our highest values. Stoic resilience teaches that adversity can be an opportunity for growth, rather than something to be avoided or resented.
Aurelius, who faced the burdens of leadership during times of war and personal struggle, recognized that his true challenge lay in how he handled these pressures. His wisdom shows that how we meet difficulties defines us, not the difficulties themselves. This perspective is especially relevant in modern life, where challenges and setbacks are inevitable. The way we choose to respond—whether with bitterness or inner strength—has a profound impact on our emotional well-being and sense of purpose.
In practice, this quote suggests that when faced with difficult situations, we should focus on responding with grace, rather than complaining or feeling victimized. For example, when dealing with criticism or failure, instead of viewing it as a misfortune, we can choose to see it as an opportunity to learn, improve, and demonstrate patience and fortitude. By bearing difficulties worthily, we turn them into moments of personal growth and moral excellence, embracing the Stoic idea that our response is what truly matters.
