Meditations

I was a little hesitant going into this, not being versed even in the slightest in Stoicism and having only this very narrow definition of what it was. This is the slap in the face I deserved. As a Christian, for me it’s important not to judge, and that’s exactly what I was subconsciously doing — which I regret. I set my mind on reading this text as soon as I heard about it but in the back of my head I already decided it was going to be something I probably wouldn’t like — and I’m sorry for it. Do I agree with every tenet of this philosophy? Not by a long shot. But, I’ve found within it much comfort, and understanding. Marcus Aurelius was a very wise, very prudent — not just Stoic…but man of the world. I’ve written down so many quotes from this text to just read to myself at any interval because they’re so inspirational to everyday life, so motivational. He wasn’t one of the “Five Good Emperors” for no reason. This text deserves to be studied, taken in, and savoured. You don’t have to agree with it all — as I said, I don’t — but I can almost guarantee everyone will find something in here that speaks to them. I’m very glad to have read this! No regrets. And the Penguin Classics version is a must! It has a large section with notes on every chapter in every book, plus an index of names, and their references within the book — which is super helpful (especially since Marcus Aurelius — a Roman — was terribly fond of referencing Greeks). All out just a very worthwhile read! Show more Show less