Marcus Aurelius...

I've been thinking about him lately, remembering his writing, his approach to this life. Maybe my favorite Caesar, the last of the so-called "Five Good Emperors," he authored a book called "Meditations" which is still revered today as a literary monument to a government of service and duty.

A government of service and duty. Wouldn't that be nice? Perhaps those we elect to high office should swear their oaths on this book and not the Bible.

I hope one day you'll read "Meditations." It's quite edifying:

“Live a good life. If there are gods and they are just, then they will not care how devout you have been, but will welcome you based on the virtues you have lived by. If there are gods, but unjust, then you should not want to worship them. If there are no gods, then you will be gone, but will have lived a noble life that will live on in the memories of your loved ones.”

He also wrote:

“Your days are numbered. Use them to throw open the windows of your soul to the sun. If you do not, the sun will soon set, and you with it.”

Okay, one more"

“It never ceases to amaze me: we all love ourselves more than other people, but care more about their opinion than our own.”

And with that, my friends, I will bid you a good night of fair dreaming. I've been enjoying those lately. Only fair that I should wish the same for you.

Mike