Stoic Quote of the Day

Friday, October 16, 2026

Thou art a little soul bearing about a corpse, as Epictetus used to say. It is no evil for things to undergo change, and no good for things to subsist in consequence of change.
— Marcus Aurelius

In these words, Marcus Aurelius reminds us of the transient nature of life and the importance of not becoming overly attached to our physical form or the external world. The notion of being a "little soul bearing about a corpse" underscores the idea that our true essence is not tied to our physical bodies, which are temporary and subject to decay. This perspective can be grounding in the modern world where there is often an emphasis on physical appearance and material possessions. By recognizing that change is neither inherently good nor evil, we can learn to accept the unfolding of events with equanimity. Whether we are facing a job loss, a move to a new city, or changes in personal relationships, viewing these transitions as natural and necessary parts of life allows us to cultivate resilience. We are encouraged to focus more on nurturing our inner selves—the 'little soul'—rather than becoming consumed by the inevitable changes that affect external circumstances. This mindset fosters a sense of peace and acceptance, enabling us to navigate life's ebbs and flows with grace and composure.