There are so many people out there telling us how to live, how to eat, what to do, what's based on science, what's based on philosophy, what's based on the latest TikTok influencer... the list goes on. I am not in search of "more" ways to function. However, while reading "Meditations," I came across an outline for a way to live.
The suggestions are not novel or new-age, they are simple. They are fundamental. And things that are simple and fundamental interest me. Perhaps Marcus' thoughts might interest you?
1. Forgive humanity.
2. You are not your body, your breath, or your mind.
3. That which serves our nature fully, serves everyone.
4. The world is maintained by change.
5. Your time is temporary. Use it.
6. Do the work with intention.
7. Respect yourself.
8. Make your work meaningful - towards something.
9. Focus on living/feeding your soul first.
10. Be aware of the function of things.
11. Don't allow desire and impulse to guide your action.
12. That which cannot harm your character/nature, is neither good nor bad.
13. Intellect is for understanding and breaking down life, people, death, emotion, and all that exists.
14. Worship your soul. Be attentive to it. Keep it clean.
15. The only thing you can truly lose is the present.
16. Everything relates and mimics and repeats itself.
17. Anger, lack of purpose, disgruntled feelings, falsities, and impulse all degrade your soul.
18. Nothing natural is evil.