Friday, June 28, 2019

something about "Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius


Meditations is a collection of personal reflections written by Marcus Aurelius (121-180), the Emperor of Rome from 161 to 180 AD. The writings reflect the life of a Stoic. The Stoic philosophy is not like asceticism, which is a lifestyle of abstinence and frugality. Stoicism, as represented in Marcus Aurelius' writings, is closer to Zen; the Emperor-author emphasizes focus, moderation, self-control, and harmony.

I appreciate how Marcus Aurelius begins the day by focusing on the values he wants to live and exhibit through his behavior. I also love this lesson and promise: "From Alexander the Platonic, not frequently nor without necessity to say to any one, or to write in a letter, that I have no leisure; nor continually to excuse the neglect of duties required by our relation to those with whom we live, by alleging urgent occupations."

Note: The version I read was translated by George Long and was published in a Harvard Classics edition that also includes Plato's The Apology, Phaedo, and Crito, as well as Epictetus' The Golden Sayings.

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