Marcus Aurelius | Meditations 1:5

In this passage from Marcus Aurelius' Meditations, he reflects on the lessons he learned from Apollonius, a philosopher he greatly admired. From Apollonius, Marcus learned the importance of reason, freedom of will, and steadfastness of purpose. He also learned the value of being resolute yet yielding, and how to receive favors from friends without either being humbled or letting them pass unnoticed.

What strikes me most about this passage is the emphasis on reason and steadfastness of purpose. Marcus Aurelius believed that reason should guide our thoughts and actions, and that we should always be true to our purpose, no matter what challenges we may face. This is a powerful message for anyone who seeks to live a fulfilling life, as it reminds us to stay focused on our goals and not to be swayed by temporary setbacks or distractions.

Another interesting point in this passage is the idea that one can be both resolute and yielding at the same time. This is a nuanced concept that may be difficult to grasp at first. However, I believe what Marcus is trying to convey is that one can be firm in their beliefs and actions while also being open to different perspectives and willing to adjust their course when necessary. This is a valuable trait for anyone who seeks to be a successful leader or collaborator, as it requires both confidence and humility.

Overall, this passage from Marcus Aurelius' Meditations offers a lot of valuable insights on how to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.