To join ourselves not just to the air surrounding us, through breath, but to the reason that embraces all things, through thought. Reason is just as omnipresent, just as widely diffused in those who accept it as air is in those who breathe.
Meditations 8.54
Today’s meditation
The underlying Stoic issue here is the interconnectedness of all things and our place within the larger universe. In Meditations 8.54, Marcus Aurelius reminds us to "join ourselves not just to the air surrounding us, through breath, but to the reason that embraces all things, through thought." This passage reveals that living well involves recognizing and embracing our connection to the universal reason that governs all things.
This insight suggests that we should strive to cultivate a sense of unity and harmony with the world around us, rather than isolating ourselves in our individual concerns. By acknowledging the omnipresent reason that underlies all existence, we can begin to see ourselves as part of a larger whole, and our actions and decisions as contributing to the greater good.
To apply this insight today, one might take a moment to reflect on their place within the world, and consider how their thoughts and actions align with the universal reason. As Marcus Aurelius notes, "Reason is just as omnipresent, just as widely diffused in those who accept it as air is in those who breathe." This means that we have the capacity to tap into this universal reason, and to allow it to guide our decisions and actions.
In practical terms, this might involve taking a few moments each day to breathe deeply and calmly, and to focus on the present moment, allowing ourselves to become more aware of our connection to the world around us. It might also involve considering how our actions and decisions impact others, and striving to act with kindness, compassion, and wisdom. As we go about our day, we might ask ourselves: "How can I align my thoughts and actions with the universal reason, and contribute to the greater good?"