[redmaverick]

It's incredible to think that Marcus was sick (with an ulcer, more than likely), his wife probably cheated on him, out of 14 children, only 6 survived, and he was emperor!

It is incredible that someone with such wealth and power could remain deeply rational and humble. Gregory Hays translation is the best of the lot. If you are going through stressful and trying times, I would recommend reading any one page out of meditations. It will give you solace when life seems to be a battle against enormous odds.

The Enchiridion by Epictetus is very good. If you like Meditations, you would love this too.

[nikkisnow]

It is incredible that someone with such wealth and power could remain deeply rational and humble.

This is so true. And, from what I gather from the "A Guide..." book, Marcus wasn't much a fan of people (although, that may just be the interpretation of Irvine), which I think speaks to his great character to be loved by so many in spite of that.

Epictetus was another great Stoic philosopher, having been born a slave and yet live a "good" life (not even sure that needs quotes around good). That's another book to the "To Read" list; thank you!