We all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinion than our own.
Marcus noticed this paradox — we prioritize our own survival, comfort, and advantage. Yet when it comes to opinion, we hand over power to others. The Stoic ideal is self-governance. If you love yourself truly, you must respect your inner judgment more than external noise. Seek truth within, not approval outside. That is where dignity lives.
Do not outsource your self-worth. Let your conscience be your compass.
"Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string."