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Causes Quote by Marcus Aurelius

“Ifit be a thing external that causes thy grief, know, that it is not that properly that doth cause it, but thine own conceit and opinion concerning the thing: which thou mayest rid thyself of, when thou wilt.” quote by Marcus Aurelius
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“Ifit be a thing external that causes thy grief, know, that it is not that properly that doth cause it, but thine own conceit and opinion concerning the thing: which thou mayest rid thyself of, when thou wilt.”

Marcus Aurelius

About This Quote

Source Book: Meditations, c. 180 AD

External events cause grief only if we let our judgments amplify them; true peace comes from adjusting our perceptions.

In simple terms: Grief stems from our opinions, not events.

Key Takeaway

Shift perspective to reduce suffering.

Themes

philosophy stoicism mindset control

Mood

reflective calm

Type

philosophical self‑help

When to use this quote

  • personal counseling
  • mindfulness practice
  • stress management

Key Concepts

perception self‑discipline inner peace

Questions to Reflect On

  • What judgments cause you unnecessary pain?
  • How can you reframe them?
A Different Perspective

Changing perception is challenging and requires effort.

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