The Whole Affects Its Parts
“What is not good for the swarm is not good for the bee.”
—Marcus Aurelius
Meditations
Marcus reminds us here of our interconnectedness with the communities we are part of. Just like a bee that thrives through the well-being of its swarm, we as individuals flourish when our groups—be it family, friends, or society at large—prosper.
It's a call to weigh our actions not solely based on personal benefits but on how they affect others around us. Consider one simple act like recycling: it might seem insignificant on its own, but collectively, it helps build a healthier environment that benefits everyone. What choices are you making today that impact your 'swarm'?
In your daily life, you might encounter moments where personal desires clash with the collective good. It's easy to prioritize immediate self-interest, but the Stoic perspective would urge us to ask: "How will this choice serve the bigger picture?" By adopting a mindset that aligns your well-being with that of the community, your actions contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable life for all.
Whether it's about giving up that last seat on the bus or contributing to a group project, think about how your contribution—or the lack thereof—affects the whole.
When was the last time you acted for the common good, not just your own?