To stop talking about what a good man is like, and just be one.
(Book 10.16)
Few ancient works have been as influential as the Meditations of Marcus Aurelius, philosopher and emperor of Rome (A.D. 161-180). A series of spiritual exercises filled with wisdom, practical guidance, and a profound understanding of human behavior, it remains one of the greatest works of spiritual and ethical reflection ever written.
Learn to ask of all actions. “Why are they doing that?” Starting with your own. (Book 10.37)
Perhaps most fascinating is that Aurelius never had any intention or expectation that anyone but himself would ever read these words. In fact, there is debate on whether the work had any title at all, as “To Himself” and “Meditations” are both considered possibilities.
Written as a series of spiritual exercises, reflecting on his teachings in the principles of Stoicism, this work shouldn’t be read as advice but rather as the working notes of a practicing philosopher attempting to provide a momentary stay against the stress and confusion of everyday life.
Two millennia later, has anything changed? Journaling remains as viable today as ever for self-reflection and character development.
External things are not the problem. It’s your assessment of them. Which you can erase right now… (Book 8.47)
The individual entries were composed not as a record of Marcus’s thoughts or to enlighten others, but for his own use, as a means of practicing and reinforcing his own philosophical convictions. This is the most powerful and inspiring aspect of the text.
For context, Aurelius would have been considered the most powerful man of his time as the emperor of Rome. Considering what we know about the shadow side of human behavior, he could have behaved - poorly. And many emperors prior to Aurelius, in fact, did!
By all accounts, he didn’t abuse his power, and the Meditations provide a clear insight into his thoughts and guiding principles. For anyone who struggles to reconcile the demands of leadership with a concern for personal integrity and spiritual well-being, the writing within the Meditations remains as relevant to us now as it was to its author two thousand years ago.
That kindness is invincible, provided it’s sincere - not ironic or an act. What can even the most vicious person do if you keep treating him with kindness and gently set him straight - if you get the chance - correcting him cheerfully at the exact moment that he’s trying to do you harm.
“No, no, my friend. That isn’t what we’re here for. It isn’t me who’s harmed by that. It’s you.”
And show him, gently and without pointing fingers, that it’s so. That bees don’t behave like this - or any other animals with a sense of community. Don’t do it sardonically or meanly, but affectionately - with no hatred in your heart. And not ex-cathedra or to impress third parties, but speaking directly. Even if there are other people around. (Book 11.18.ix)
Thank you for reading! You can find this book and others on Stoicism in my Recommended Reading List