And do you know why we have not the power to attain this…
““And do you know why we have not the power to attain this Stoic ideal? It is because we refuse to believe in our power. Nay, of a surety, there is something else which plays a part: it is because we are in love with our vices; we uphold them and prefer to make excuses for them rather than shake them off. We mortals have been endowed with sufficient strength by nature, if only we use this strength, if only we concentrate our powers and rouse them all to help us or at least not to hinder us. The reason is unwillingness, the excuse, inability.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We lack the Stoic ideal because we cling to vices and make excuses, ignoring our innate strength and willpower.
In simple terms: We fail to achieve virtue by loving our flaws and not using our natural strength.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and discard excuses to harness inner strength.
Themes
virtue
self‑control
human nature
philosophy
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- ethical decision‑making
- overcoming bad habits
- self‑improvement
Key Concepts
Stoicism
willpower
excuse‑making
Questions to Reflect On
- What vices are you excusing?
- How can you activate your inner strength?
A Different Perspective
Excuses can be deeply ingrained, making change difficult.