“The wonderful thing about [nature's] workmanship is how, faced with that limitation, it takes everything within it that seems broken, old, and useless, transforms it into itself and makes new things from it. So that it doesn't need material from any outside source, or anywhere to dispose of what's leftover. It relies on itself for all it needs: space, material, and labor.”
More from Marcus Aurelius
“Commodus: I search the faces of the gods…for ways to please you, to make you proud. One…”
“Marcus Aurelius: Are you ready to do your duty for Rome? Commodus: Yes, father. Marcus…”
“Commodus: Have I missed it? Have I missed the battle? [Commodus embraces him] Marcus…”
“Marcus Aurelius: When I die, you’re going to be sole emperor of Rome. Commodus: I’m not…”