<Meditations> by Marcus Aurelius
alberty111 | April 1, 2024, 7:11 p.m.
book notes
"<Meditations> is a collection of philosophical reflections and personal notes by Marcus Aurelius, a Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher. Written during his reign from 161 to 180 AD, the book serves as a guide to Stoic principles and offers insights into Aurelius' own struggles and contemplations." This is the overlook of the book summarized by Chatgpt. Pretty much it.
But I want to leave it here some quotes from the book just as a reminder for myself or possible for you1.
- Remember how long you've been putting this off, how many extensions the gods gave you, and you didn't use them. At some point you have to recognize what world it is that you belong to; what power rules it and from what source you spring; that there is a limit to the time assigned you, and if you don't use it to free yourself it will be gone and will never return. -Book 2
- Dont forget these things: The nature of the world. My nature. How I relate to the world. What proportion of ti I make up. That you are part of the nature, and no one can prevent you from speaking and acting in harmony with it, always. -Book 2
- If it does not harm the community, it does not harm its members. When you think you've been injured, apply this rule: If the community isn't insured by it, neither am I. And if it is, anger is not the answer. Show the offender where he went wrong. Book 5
To be continued...
1: Citing from 2003 Modern library paperback edition translated by Gregory Hays.