Marcus Aurelius Meditations
Marcus Aurelius: But whatsoever it is that thou art…
But whatsoever it is that thou art about, remember to call upon the Gods. And as for the time how long thou shalt live to do these things, let it be altogether indifferent unto thee, for even three such hours are sufficient.
The passage follows a public-domain translation of Meditations. The reading beside it is ours.
Whatever you are doing, begin from something larger than your immediate ego. Marcus says to call on the gods; in modern terms, that can mean recalling your principles, your conscience, or the people your actions affect. Do not rush into work, conflict, or ambition as if your only obligation is to win. Ground yourself first. Then remember that the length of your life is not guaranteed. Three good hours, Marcus says, can be enough. This is not a reason to waste time or become fatalistic. It is a reminder that quality matters more than duration. A short period of honest effort, real presence, and useful service is not small. Today, before your next important task, pause for ten seconds. Ask what kind of person you intend to be while doing it. Then give the time you have to that answer, without demanding a promise of more.
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