Marcus Aurelius · 121–180 CE
Meditations 7.5 — Marcus Aurelius
Translation by George Long (1862)
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.5
Is my understanding sufficient for this or not? If it is sufficient, I use it for the work as an instrument given by the universal nature. But if it is not sufficient, then either I retire from the work and give way to him who is able to do it better, unless there be some reason why I ought not to do so; or I do it as well as I can, taking to help me the man who with the aid of my ruling principle can do what is now fit and useful for the general good. For whatsoever either by myself or with another I can do, ought to be directed to this only, to that which is useful and well suited to society.
Cite this passage
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations 7.5, tr. George Long (1862)
https://whatwouldstoicsdo.com/passage/meditations/7.5
Marcus Aurelius, Meditations, tr. George Long (1862). Text: Standard Ebooks (CC0). Sources and licences
In plain English
AI-written notesWhen a task lands on you, ask honestly whether you are up to it. If you are, use your ability as a gift; if not, either step aside for someone better or do your best with a capable helper, always aiming at what benefits the wider community.
Older wording
- “understanding”
- — your abilities and judgement
- “retire”
- — withdraw
- “ruling principle”
- — your reasoning mind
Themes and situations
- Duty and roles
- Community and our duty to others
- Leadership and power
- Courage
- Learning and progress
- A hard decision
- Leading others
- Fear of failure
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