Yes, Marcus Aurelius did express a sentiment similar to ‘Death smiles at us all’ in his writings. While the exact phrase may not appear verbatim in his works, the essence of this idea can be found throughout his philosophical reflections in ‘Meditations’.
In his writings, Aurelius often contemplated the nature of death and the inevitability of mortality. He emphasized the importance of recognizing death as a natural part of life, suggesting that it should not be feared but accepted as an essential aspect of the human experience. The concept that death is a common fate that brings a sense of equality among all people is a recurring theme in Stoic philosophy.
The notion encapsulated in the phrase can be interpreted as a reminder that death is a shared experience, one that awaits everyone regardless of status or achievement. By acknowledging this universal truth, Aurelius encouraged his readers to live a virtuous life, focusing on what truly matters rather than being preoccupied with the fear of death.