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Meditations

Marcus Aurelius

§ Section 11

Book Five

5:11

Book Subtitle: The classic from Marcus Aurelius.

Book Description: The personal notes of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. This book has influenced many throughout history from students to statesmen. It's an inside look at a brilliant and thoughtful man working on living well. The emperor and philosopher's thoughts are crucial to understand for any Stoic seeking to do their best in a complex world.

Chapter Subtitle: In he morning when you rise unwillingly, let this thought be present- I am rising to the work of a human being.

11. About what am I now employing my own soul?

On every occasion I must ask myself this question, and inquire, what have I now in this part of me which they call the ruling principle?

And whose soul have I now?

That of a child, or of a young man, or of a feeble woman, or of a tyrant, or of a domestic animal, or of a wild beast?