Meditations by Marcus Aurelius is one of the most famous stoic texts. stoics believe, among other things, that happiness is found in virtue, self control is important, reason must rule over emotions, and personal responsibility is key to being a good person.

This passage jumped out at me because it perfectly encapsulates the Buddhist idea of impermanence.

Frightened of change? But what can exist without it? What’s closer to nature’s heart? Can you take a hot bath and leave the firewood as it was? Eat food without transforming it? Can any vital process take place without something being changed?

Can’t you see? It’s just the same with you—and just as vital to nature.