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Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

§ Section 28

Book Five

5:28

Book Subtitle: The classic from Marcus Aurelius.

Book Description: The personal notes of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. This book has influenced many throughout history from students to statesmen. It's an inside look at a brilliant and thoughtful man working on living well. The emperor and philosopher's thoughts are crucial to understand for any Stoic seeking to do their best in a complex world.

Chapter Subtitle: In he morning when you rise unwillingly, let this thought be present- I am rising to the work of a human being.

28. Are you angry with him whose armpits stink?

Are you angry with him whose mouth smells foul?

What good will this danger do you?

He has such a mouth, he has such arm-pits: it is necessary that such an emanation must come from such things- but the man has reason, it will be said, and he is able, if he takes pain, to discover wherein he offends- I wish you well of your discovery.

Well then, and you have reason: by your rational faculty stir up his rational faculty; show him his error, admonish him.

For if he listens, you will cure him, and there is no need of anger.

Neither tragic actor nor whore...