Understanding Marcus Aurelius

Today’s reflection is part of our ongoing series, "The Art of Living: From Socrates to Aquinas," featured in Perennial Meditations. This week, we delve into the life and teachings of 12 notable Stoics, Saints, and Sages.

Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (121–180) stands out as both a Roman emperor and a Stoic philosopher, recognized as the final figure among the Five Good Emperors. In "The Lives of the Stoics," authors Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman note that the foundation of Marcus Aurelius's philosophical strength lies in a straightforward practice he likely encountered in the writings of Seneca and Epictetus: the daily reflection.

Epictetus advised, "Every day and night keep thoughts like these at hand. Write them, read them aloud, talk to yourself and others about them." This practice was central to Marcus's life; he frequently penned reminders and aphorisms inspired by Stoic philosophy. His only known work, "Meditations," is a testament to this habit, filled with personal insights and reflections.

The title of "Meditations," which dates back to 167 AD, translates to "to himself," encapsulating the essence of the text. Holiday and Hanselman emphasize that "Meditations" was not intended for an audience but rather for Marcus himself. This unique approach has allowed the text to resonate through the ages, making it one of the most remarkable literary achievements.

The Art of Connection

While there are numerous lessons to glean from Marcus Aurelius’s life and teachings, we will focus specifically on the theme of connection. In a well-known passage from Book II, he advises himself: “At the start of the day, remind yourself: I will encounter people who are meddlesome, ungrateful, harsh, and selfish.” As social beings, interacting with others is an inescapable aspect of our lives.

At first glance, Marcus's viewpoint might seem somewhat cynical about human nature. However, the passage continues with profound insight: “They behave this way due to their ignorance of what is truly good and bad. I, on the other hand, have discerned the essence of goodness and wrongdoing, and I understand that wrongdoers are inextricably linked to me…”

Marcus Aurelius reflects on the concepts of virtue and vice, ultimately arriving at a conclusion akin to that of Socrates: “No one knowingly commits evil.” When individuals act immorally, it is often due to a momentary lack of wisdom.

Are there individuals in your life who challenge your patience?

How could a shift in perspective improve your connections with them?

Marcus continues, “None of these people can truly harm me, for they cannot taint my essence, nor can I allow myself to feel anger or hatred towards someone who is fundamentally my kin. We are all meant to work in harmony, just as feet, hands, or eyelids do, or like the upper and lower rows of teeth.” He concludes, “To act against one another is unnatural—anger and rejection are forms of discord.”

This teaching illustrates that responding with compassion and understanding is not only the most prudent path; it is always achievable.