Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

How many times have you come across an emperor who is also a philosopher? And by philosopher, I mean a genuine person who puts his/her philosophy so close to heart that even during a war, they sit down and write their thoughts during evenings? With no intention to publish or to preach anyone! Just self- thoughts.

Marcus Aurelius is one such emperor. His book “Meditations” is probably the best philosophy book I have read so far. It’s literally just his points jotted down. Nothing more, nothing less. Marcus shares his thoughts which are very much relevant to any generation. His idea on life, death, work, nature, feelings, relationships, the way to live are just mind-boggling. There are instances I can resonate a lot in this book. Important points I noted down are:

If I would like to suggest only one philosophy book, I will go with this. So, do read the book if you liked the points mentioned below.

1. “States will never be happy until rulers become philosophers or philosophers become rulers” — Plato

2. “Be the same in all circumstances — Intense Pain, loss of child, extreme love, chronic illness. That’s the philosophy one needs to embrace”

3. “Don’t expect anything from anyone. That way, you won’t be hurt no matter what others do”

4. “If you got hurt by others, it’s your fault. Not theirs. Because you got hurt deep inside you which others can’t control. Only you can control it”

5. Death is a natural phase in life. Never ever feel bad about it.

6. “Don’t let your emotions override what your mind tells you”

7. “Live the present, Carpe diem. You don’t have control over future or can’t undo past”

8. “Your ability to control the thoughts — treat it with respect. It’s all that protects your mind from false perceptions”

9. “The world is nothing but change. Our life is only but perception”

10. It can ruin your life only if it ruins your character. Otherwise, it can’t harm you — inside or out”

11. “The tranquility that comes when you stop caring what they say. Or think, or do”

12. “If you seek tranquility, do less. Or do what’s essential”

13. Most of what we do is not essential. Cut down what’s unessential, you will have more time and more tranquility. Ask this question every moment — “Is…