Stoic Quote of the Day
Wednesday, December 03, 2025
The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.
—
Marcus Aurelius
Revenge might seem gratifying at first, but ultimately, it traps you in the same cycle of negativity and harm. Marcus Aurelius encourages us to rise above the actions of those who have wronged us by maintaining our integrity and values. Instead of mirroring the harmful behavior and allowing anger or resentment to dictate our actions, we can choose a path that reflects our true character—a path of kindness, understanding, and self-control. In today's world, consider a situation at work where a colleague undermines you. The immediate impulse might be to retaliate with gossip or sabotage. However, embodying the principle of surpassing their behavior, you might instead choose to continue your work with diligence and professionalism. In doing so, you not only preserve your reputation and self-respect but also cultivate an environment of respect and empathy. This approach doesn't just negate the harmful actions of others but transforms them into opportunities for personal growth and strength. By being unlike those who perform injuries, we liberate ourselves from the cycle of vengeance and stand as exemplars of true resilience and virtue.