One of the most significant books ever written by a head of State, the Meditations are a collection of philosophical thoughts by the Emperor Marcus Aurelius (121 - 180 A.D.). Covering issues such as duty, forgiveness, brotherhood, strength in adversity and the best way to approach life and death, the Meditations have inspired thinkers, poets and politicians since their first publication more than 500 years ago. Today, the book stands as one of the great guides and companions - a cornerstone of Western thought.

Marcus Aurelius is often regarded as the "father of Stoicism" and his Meditations as a sort of Stoic Bible. Those are both false perceptions — Stoicism was founded centuries before his time, in Greece, and Aurelius's "meditations" (mostly written while he was out in the field trying to suppress rowdy barbarians) came from his personal journals. He was writing only for himself, and never meant for his writings to be published after his death as a guide to others on how to live their lives.

Nonetheless, the Meditations are worthy of a deep, thoughtful read. Much of what Aurelius "teaches" can be considered common sense guidelines to approaching life, even if you are not a capital-S Stoic.
"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength."

Chapters
Book 1 - 1:26:28
Book 2 - 1:39:54
Book 3 - 1:50:40
Book 4 - 2:03:59
Book 5 - 2:24:25
Book 6 - 2:44:35
Book 7 - 3:05:13
Book 8 - 3:25:13
Book 9 - 3:47:28
Book 10 - 4:07:24
Book 11 - 4:28:00
Book 12 - 4:45:20

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