Greatness

by Beth Haley

I was reminded today, about a book I had not read for a long time. It is called, “Meditations, by Marcus Aurelius.”

Marcus Aurelius Antonius’ real name was M. Annius Verus. Upon his father’s death, Marcus was adopted by his grandfather who taught him to be “gentle and meek, and to refrain from all anger and passion.” It is written that Marcus’ education was, “conducted with all care”…and that “He was taught to dress plainly and to live simply” and “to avoid all softness and luxury.”

–Meditations, by Marcus Aurelius

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What makes a great man? Perhaps it is in his act of being open to learning and in recognizing the masters and teachers that are brought into his path. Is this then wisdom, to be able to say, “All that I am is here, listed below, by name: These were my masters.”

Marcus Aurelius, wrote, in detail, about the people who were instrumental in shaping his life: “…whether Parents, Friends, or Masters; by their good examples, or good advice and counsel, he had learned…”

–Meditations, by Marcus Aurelius

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In our writing today, this would be seen many times in the beginning of the book under, “Acknowledgements” or “Dedication”, with a name and a short note of thanks and appreciation.

If I were to write anything noteworthy, I would want a dedication, such as Aurelius wrote, that honored all the teachers that have influenced my life. And, the more I think on it, the longer my list grows.

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Who would be honored in the pages of your book?

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