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Have you ever wondered about the impact of Stoic philosophy on modern life or how such ancient wisdom could guide us through the complexities and challenges of today’s world? If so, Marcus Aurelius’ ‘Meditations’ might just be the key text you’ve been searching for.
Meditations
‘Meditations’ by Marcus Aurelius represents a masterclass in Stoic philosophy, written by a Roman Emperor as notes to himself, guides to good practice, never intended for publication, but collated together after his death by those he left behind, those that worked alongside the emperor, those people, those statemen who became his friends, those who admired his dedication to duty, and his willingness to do his best for the ordinary people of Rome, the empire at large protecting their safeties and way of life. Marcus was a truly great man and his compatriots wished to preserve his legacy and honour the memory of a true philosopher king, one of the five good emperors of Rome, by gathering his notes to his himself, his personal reflections on good conduct, virtue and what it is to be a leader of men into a single codex, now popularly referred to as ‘The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius.’ Make no mistake, when you are reading this book, you are reading the personal thoughts and reflections of one of history’s greatest men!
Meditations, ‘or notes to oneself,’ offers profound insights into human nature, virtue, and the path to inner peace. But why should we, in the 21st century, pay attention to a text penned nearly two millennia ago? Yet, many people perceive ancient texts like ‘Meditations’ as dense, archaic, and difficult to relate to our fast-paced, modern lives. The language and context might seem foreign, and the philosophical concepts could appear abstract or impractical. This perception can deter potential readers, preventing them from discovering the practical wisdom these works hold, so the best advice is get yourself a modern translation such as the one from the Modern Library (the Hay’s Translation) or from Penguin Classics which are both easy to read, easy to digest and great for light reading.
‘Meditations’ is replete with themes and advice that remain remarkably relevant. Marcus Aurelius delves into the nature of happiness, the importance of mindfulness, and the value of resilience in the face of adversity and the importance of attending to duty, remining us that we’re all a vital part of human life and society. His reflections encourage us to focus on what we can control, to let go of what we cannot, and maintain a calm and rational mind in all circumstances.
For instance, Aurelius emphasises the transient nature of life and the importance of living in accordance with our values. He advises:
“Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.”
This principle can guide us through personal and professional relationships today, fostering compassion, patience, and a deep sense of connection with others.
One particularly insightful passage reads:
“You have power over your mind—not outside events. Realise this, and you will find strength.”
In an age of constant distractions and external pressures, this advice is invaluable. It reminds us that our inner world is within our control, even when the outer world is chaotic. This realization can lead to personal growth, emotional resilience, and a more centred approach to life’s inevitable ups and downs. It’s not what happens to us that is important, but how we react to it that determines our peace of mind and by extension our personal happiness. It’s within the mind that we reign supreme we can always choose to be happy regardless of personal circumstances. Happiness comes from within and always and forever remains under our control. Happiness, peace of mind and freedom from distress and worry, a state that the Stoic’s called ‘Ataraxia,’ remains a conscious choice and is always within our power.
In summary, ‘Meditations’ by Marcus Aurelius offers timeless guidance that transcends the ages. Its teachings on self-control, resilience, and mindful living are as pertinent now as they were in ancient Rome. By engaging with this text, readers can find practical strategies for navigating modern life’s challenges with grace and wisdom.
I encourage you to share your thoughts on Stoic philosophy, ‘Meditations,’ or any other related topics in the comments section. Have you found similar wisdom in other ancient texts? Let’s explore these ideas together and see how they can enrich our lives today.
