Stoic Snippets 223

Everything which happens either happens in such a way as you are formed by nature to bear it, or as you are not formed by nature to bear it. 

If, then, it happens to you in such a way as you are formed by nature to bear it, do not complain, but bear it as you are formed by nature to bear it. 

But if it happens in such a way as you are not formed by nature to bear it, do not complain, for it will perish after it has consumed you. 

Remember, however, that you are formed by nature to bear everything, with respect to which it depends on your own opinion to make it endurable and tolerable, by thinking that it is either in your interest or your duty to do this. 

—Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 10.3 

IMAGE: Melody Suttles, Endurance Tree