Marcus Tullius Cicero: 'The pursuit, even of the best things, ought to be calm and tranquil.'

The pursuit, even of the best things, ought to be calm and tranquil.

In his famous quote, Marcus Tullius Cicero emphasizes the importance of maintaining a calm and tranquil state of mind in the pursuit of even the best things in life. At first glance, this quote seems straightforward - it simply reminds us to approach our goals and desires without becoming overwhelmed or consumed by anxiety. However, upon deeper reflection, Cicero's words hold an unexpected philosophical concept that can shed light on our society's obsession with constant hustle and the cultural shift needed to embrace tranquility.In our modern world, where hustle culture is celebrated and busyness is often worn as a badge of honor, Cicero's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of tranquility in achieving true fulfillment. The pursuit of our goals, whether they be personal, professional, or spiritual, can often become fraught with stress and anxiety. We may find ourselves becoming entangled in the incessant demands of our ambition, sacrificing our well-being and peace of mind in the process.Contrary to this prevailing mindset, Cicero proposes that tranquility should not be seen as an afterthought or a luxury, but as an integral part of the pursuit of the best things in life. By approaching our goals with a calm and composed mindset, we are better able to think rationally, make well-informed decisions, and savor the journey itself rather than getting lost in the whirlwind of constant striving.But what if there is a deeper meaning to Cicero's words? What if he is challenging us to question the very nature of our desires and the meaning of "the best things" in life? Perhaps he implores us to reevaluate our definitions of success and happiness.In a society driven by materialism and external validation, we often equate the pursuit of the best things with acquiring wealth, power, and status. However, Cicero's quote suggests that true fulfillment lies not in the acquisition of external trappings, but in an inner state of tranquility and contentment.Taking Cicero's words to heart, we can begin to question the relentless pursuit of material possessions and societal status as the ultimate measure of success. Instead, we can strive for a more profound understanding of what truly matters to us, what brings us inner peace, and what aligns with our core values.Perhaps Cicero's quote can be seen as an invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery. By cultivating a calm and tranquil state of mind, we create the space to explore our passions, nurture meaningful relationships, and find contentment in the present moment.Moreover, Cicero's words can prompt us to reevaluate the imbalance between our external achievements and our internal well-being. In a world that often equates success with busyness, the pursuit of tranquility challenges the prevailing narrative and offers a counterpoint to the constant hustle.In conclusion, Marcus Tullius Cicero's quote encourages us to approach the pursuit of the best things in life with calm and tranquility. Beyond its initial message, this quote invites us to question the very nature of our desires, encouraging a shift in societal norms and a reevaluation of our definitions of success. By incorporating tranquility as an integral part of our pursuits, we can find true fulfillment, embrace the journey, and live a more balanced and meaningful life.