Marcus Aurelius Against Cults

Avoiding the Rabbit Hole

Advice Lori Vallow could have used…

Marcus Aurelius wrote private notes to himself on his life’s philosophy in Meditations. See his advice below on making decisions:

[Before making a decision] The first thing to do – don't get worked up. For everything happens according to the nature of all things, and in a short time you'll be nobody and nowhere even as the great emperors Hadrian and Augustus are now. The next thing to do – consider carefully the task at hand for what it is, while remembering that your purpose is to be a good human being. Get straight to doing what nature requires of you, and speak as you see most just and fitting – with kindness, modesty, and sincerity.

— VIII. 5^[29]: 162

It seems to be a call for reflection. I’ve always looked at my decisions in two ways: in the context of the moment, and again while placing myself in the mindset I had before entering the situation. Comparing the two potential decisions gives perspective and allows for refe…