Meditations

Marcus Aurelius • 180 • ~192 pages Harvard Classics Vol. 2

Key Quotes

“You have power over your mind — not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.” “The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts.” “Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth.”

My Notes & Reflections

One of the most practical philosophy books ever written. Marcus writes as a man trying to live virtuously while ruling an empire — no ivory tower stuff. Core lessons that stuck with me:

• Focus only on what is in your control (the dichotomy of control).
• Memento mori: remember you will die — use it to cut through petty concerns.
• Treat others with justice and kindness even when difficult. I read this slowly over a month, a few pages each morning. It pairs incredibly well with Epictetus (also in HC Vol 2). For the book club: Great discussion on leadership under pressure and maintaining character in public life. Status: ✅ Read (multiple times, favorite passages marked)