Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations offers an inspiring glimpse into the mind of an Emperor, providing profound insights that remain relevant today. For anyone passionate about journaling, note-taking, or maintaining a personal diary, it’s unlikely they imagine their private reflections becoming public—unless they consciously approach the exercise as a memoir.
What makes Meditations so enriching is precisely this: Marcus Aurelius never intended his writings to be published. This unintended authenticity amplifies the depth and sincerity of his thoughts, as they were written purely for himself, reflecting his true emotions and struggles.
This remarkable collection is a deeply personal, philosophical diary of an intellectual Roman emperor—raw and introspective and a fascinating window into the mind of this remarkable individual! It stands as a timeless work of wisdom, without the expectations of an audience.
Here are some notable quotes:
“There was a time when I met luck at every turn. But luck is a good fortune you determine for yourself: and good fortune consists in good inclinations of the soul, good impulses, good actions”.
Or,
“ If someone can prove me wrong and show me my mistake in any thought or action, I shall gladly change. I seek the truth, which never harmed anyone: the harm is to persist in one’s own self-deception and ignorance.”
These quotes strongly emphasize humility for a Roman emperor born in AD 121 who describes himself as: “a male, mature in years, a statesman, a Roman, a ruler”.
The writings of Marcus Aurelius offer a striking blend of humility and wisdom. Yet, what truly fascinates me about Meditations is his profound humility, given the magnitude of his power and influence for someone who ruled a significant portion of the known world.
Despite his immense authority, Marcus Aurelius’s notes never hint at superiority, arrogance, or self-aggrandizement. Quite the opposite: his reflections reveal a man deeply committed to introspection, self-improvement, and civility. This humility is even more remarkable when contrasted with some modern leaders, where such traits seem increasingly rare.
I strongly recommend this book. While my initial reading felt choppy and somewhat challenging, as I adjusted to the language and contemplated the meaning behind his words, I came to deeply appreciate the man behind the title. At times, it felt as if Marcus Aurelius was sitting right beside me, engaged in a fireside conversation.
His reflections remind us that while the world may have changed over 2,000 years, the essence of humanity remains the same. Greatness, as then and now, is not easily achieved. Yet, by adhering to a few fundamental principles of respect and civility towards others, we all have the potential to become better leaders and better people.
Enjoy!