On October 14th, we invite you to contemplate an extraordinary quote from Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations”. The day's reflection highlights the importance of being content with our current opinion, course of action and mood, as long as we are sure of their virtues. Let's explore this quote deeper and understand how it relates to the principles of Stoicism.
“Be satisfied with your present opinion, if you are sure of it; with its current course of action, if aimed at the collective good; with your current mood, if you are satisfied with everything that comes from outside.” – Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, Book 9, 6.
This quote invites us to reflect on the relationship between contentment and certainty, as well as the importance of aligning our judgments, actions and states of mind with ethical and rational principles.
Contentment with Current Opinion
The first part of the quote emphasizes the importance of being satisfied with our current opinion, as long as we are sure of it. This highlights the need to develop well-founded and rational opinions. In Stoicism, opinions must be guided by reason and virtue. If we are convinced that our opinion is fair and true, we can find contentment in that certainty.
Course of Action Aimed at the Collective Good
The second part of the quote highlights that contentment is appropriate when our course of action is aimed at the collective good. The Stoics believed that virtue is the highest good and that we must act in a way that promotes the common good. Therefore, when our actions are aligned with ethical principles and aim to benefit everyone, contentment is justified.
Satisfaction with Current Mood
The third part of the quote highlights that we can be satisfied with our current mood, as long as we are happy with everything that comes from outside. This reminds us that emotions can be influenced by external events, but Stoic wisdom teaches us to develop emotional resilience. Being satisfied with our current mood involves accept events that we cannot control and maintain inner serenity.
The Importance of Certainty
An underlying theme in this reflection is the importance of certainty. Stoicism values the search for wisdom and understanding, so that our opinions and actions are based on solid principles. Certainty does not mean infallibility, but rather the conviction that we are following a virtuous and rational path.
Conclusion
The reflection of the day, taken from “Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius, reminds us that contentment is linked to certainty and virtue. We must seek well-founded opinions, act for the collective good and maintain serenity, even in the face of external events. Contentment is not a blind pursuit of satisfaction, but rather the result of live in accordance with the ethical principles of Stoicism.
As we apply this reflection in our daily lives, we cultivate a more serene, ethical and conscious existence, in search of wisdom and contentment.
This article explored the reflection of October 14th in the book “365 Reflexões Estoicas”, by Marco Aurélio, highlighting its importance in the understanding contentment and certainty in the Stoic context.
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