July 25, 2026

The Reason To Rise

In the morning when thou risest unwillingly, let this thought be present—I am rising to the work of a human being. Why then am I dissatisfied if I am going to do the things for which I exist and for which I was brought into the world? Or have I been made for this, to lie in the bed-clothes and keep myself warm?

Marcus Aurelius wrote this to himself, not for publication, likely during a cold morning on campaign along the Danube while ruling as emperor amid war and plague. He is arguing himself out of bed, reminding himself that a human being exists to act, not merely to stay comfortable. The passage goes on to point out that plants, birds, ants, and bees are already at their tasks, doing the work their nature assigns them without complaint. Stoicism teaches that human nature is rational and social, so our proper work is useful, cooperative action carried out with and for others. Practicing this principle means treating the discomfort of getting up as the very first small test of living according to that nature.

A principle of Stoicism: The Work of a Human Being →