When jarred, unavoidably, by circumstances, revert at once to yourself, and don’t lose the rhythm more than you can help. You’ll have a better grasp of the harmony if you keep on going back to it.
Meditations 6.11
Stoic Sage
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Today’s reflection
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is maintaining inner balance amidst life's challenges. In Meditations 6.11, Marcus Aurelius advises, "revert at once to yourself," when faced with difficulties. This reveals that living well involves cultivating a strong sense of self and regularly returning to it, especially during turbulent times.
This passage suggests that we should strive to maintain our inner "rhythm" and "harmony," even when external circumstances jar us. By doing so, we can better navigate life's challenges and make more virtuous decisions. As Marcus Aurelius notes, "you'll have a better grasp of the harmony if you keep on going back to it."
To apply this insight today, one could practice regular self-reflection, taking a few moments to "revert at once to yourself" when feeling overwhelmed or distracted. This might involve taking a short walk, practicing deep breathing, or simply pausing to collect your thoughts. By doing so, you can reconnect with your inner values and principles, and respond to challenges more thoughtfully.
As you go about your day, ask yourself: What is the "rhythm" I aim to maintain, and how can I return to it when faced with difficulties?