Meditations

Begin Again
Begin Again
Eden McBride spent her whole life colouring within the lines. But when her fiancé dumps her one month before their wedding, Eden is done following the rules. A hot rebound is just what the doctor recommends for her broken heart. No, not really. But it's what Eden needs. Liam Anderson, the heir to the biggest logistics company in Rock Union, is the perfect rebound guy. Dubbed the Three Months Prince by the tabloids because he's never with the same girl longer than three months, Liam's had his fair share of one night stands and doesn't expect Eden to be anything more than a hookup. When he wakes up and finds her gone along with his favourite denim shirt, Liam is irritated, but oddly intrigued. No woman has ever left his bed willingly or stole from him. Eden has done both. He needs to find her and make her account. But in a city with more than five million people, finding one person is as impossible as winning the lottery, until fate brings them together again two years later. Eden is no longer the naive girl she was when she jumped into Liam's bed; she now has a secret to protect at all costs. Liam is determined to get everything Eden stole from him, and it's not just his shirt. © 2020-2021 Val Sims. All rights reserved. No part of this novel may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author and publishers.
9.8
196 Chapters
Living With My Lady Boss
Living With My Lady Boss
A legend returns to find that his wife has kicked him out for someone richer. He reveals his identity in a fit of rage, resulting in countless beautiful women in power flocking to him. His wife is at a loss for words!
9.6
2901 Chapters
The Alpha Claimed Me Deeply
The Alpha Claimed Me Deeply
She's trying to escape. He's looking for revenge. She stumbles. He catches. She holds a secret. He wants to unravel it. It's impossible for them to be mates. But destiny had other plans. Xavier Knight thinks having a mate makes one weak. But can he really resist the bond that has entwined the two so deeply? Especially when he needs to have a taste of her to calm his raging beast? Her taste alone has become an addiction he craves severely, so how long can he hold off from marking her as his? Warning! MATURE CONTENT!
9.8
81 Chapters
Let me go alpha, I belong to your cousin
Let me go alpha, I belong to your cousin
He doesn’t sleep with the same woman twice, they said. And I believed it... until he couldn’t stop touching me. Night after night, he called me to his bed like I was his favorite secret. They told me I was lucky—an omega chosen by the Alpha himself. I believed that too... until I found out I was pregnant. Then he married his Luna. He didn’t even look back. So, I ran. I ran with nothing but my pride, my broken heart, and the child growing inside me. People called me foolish. Maybe I was. But now... he’s looking for me. Searching the world like he’s lost his mind. And just when I thought my heart couldn’t be pulled in two, a man with kind eyes and a powerful soul held my hand and whispered, “Please don’t go back to him. You’re mine now.” My mate. His cousin. And the father of the child I carry? No. It can't be that easy. Because my heart still burns for the Alpha who broke it. So tell me… How do I choose between the one who marked my soul…
Not enough ratings
15 Chapters
Blood and moonlight
Blood and moonlight
Ava has always believed three things: vampires must protect their coven, werewolves are sworn enemies, and she is twenty-two years old. But lies run deep in the shadows. When Ava is sent on a mission beyond her coven’s borders, she meets Achi—a quiet, enigmatic human who stirs something ancient in her blood. Drawn to him by a bond she doesn’t understand, Ava struggles to reconcile her feelings with everything she’s been taught. Achi is calm, well-built, and seemingly ordinary… but nothing about him is what it seems. Achi is a hybrid—the forbidden child of both vampire and werewolf bloodlines. Cursed by ancient gods and hidden from the world, hybrids are destined to be locked away on a mountain far from civilization. But Achi has a secret: he escaped. And now, he’s living under a false identity, searching for the one the prophecy named—the vampire girl with silver in her veins and a choice that could save or doom them both. As passion ignites between them, truths unravel. Ava must decide where her loyalty lies—with the coven that raised her in fear or with the man who might shatter everything she thought she knew. And Achi must confront his fate: to love Ava is to break the gods’ law, but to let her go could destroy them all. In a world where bloodlines mean war and love means betrayal, can a forbidden bond rewrite destiny?
Not enough ratings
21 Chapters
The Alpha Hidden Mate
The Alpha Hidden Mate
Diana Nightclaw never had time to dream of romance or her fated mate. After the tragic loss of her father and stepmother during the war of wolves, she abandoned her pack and went into hiding with her stepsister, Layla. In a bid to build a better life, Diana takes a job as the personal assistant to the powerful CEO of one of the city’s most prestigious companies. But as secrets unravel and betrayal strikes, Diana finds herself navigating a dangerous web of lies, love, and revenge.
Not enough ratings
7 Chapters

What relationships are examined in 'Meditations' and their significance?

4 answers2025-04-09 06:20:53

In 'Meditations', Marcus Aurelius delves into the relationship between the self and the universe, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's place within the grand scheme of things. He explores the idea that individuals are part of a larger whole, and this interconnectedness fosters a sense of duty and responsibility towards others. The relationship between reason and emotion is another focal point, as Aurelius advocates for the supremacy of rational thought over fleeting feelings. This balance is crucial for achieving inner peace and making sound decisions.

Additionally, the relationship between life and death is examined, with Aurelius urging readers to accept the inevitability of death and live virtuously in the present. He also reflects on the relationship between leaders and their subjects, highlighting the virtues of humility, justice, and wisdom in governance. These relationships collectively underscore the Stoic philosophy of living a life of virtue, self-discipline, and mindfulness, which remains profoundly relevant today.

How can 'Meditations' be compared to modern self-help literature?

3 answers2025-04-09 22:20:49

Reading 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius feels like diving into a timeless guide for living a meaningful life. Unlike modern self-help books that often focus on quick fixes or step-by-step formulas, 'Meditations' offers a philosophical approach rooted in Stoicism. It’s not about achieving external success but cultivating inner peace and resilience. Modern self-help tends to emphasize productivity and happiness, while 'Meditations' teaches acceptance and detachment from things beyond our control. The book’s reflective tone and personal nature make it feel like a conversation with a wise mentor rather than a structured guide. It’s less about ‘how to’ and more about ‘why to,’ which makes it stand out in today’s fast-paced, results-driven world.

Which themes in 'Meditations' reflect the human experience and growth?

5 answers2025-04-09 11:15:31

In 'Meditations,' Marcus Aurelius grapples with themes that resonate deeply with the human experience. Stoicism is at the core, emphasizing self-control, rationality, and acceptance of what we cannot change. I find his reflections on impermanence particularly striking—how life is fleeting, and everything eventually fades. This mirrors the universal struggle with mortality and the desire to leave a meaningful legacy. His focus on inner peace, rather than external validation, feels timeless. It’s a reminder to prioritize personal growth over societal pressures.

Another theme is the interconnectedness of humanity. Aurelius often writes about our shared nature and the importance of empathy. This idea feels especially relevant today, as we navigate a world that often feels divided. His advice to treat others with kindness, even when they wrong us, is a lesson in emotional resilience. For those intrigued by these ideas, 'The Obstacle Is the Way' by Ryan Holiday offers a modern take on Stoic principles.

What character development is evident in 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius?

2 answers2025-04-08 23:15:43

Reading 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius feels like peering into the mind of a philosopher-king who constantly strives for self-improvement. The book is a collection of personal writings, and through it, you can see Marcus grappling with his own flaws, emotions, and responsibilities. He often reflects on the nature of virtue, urging himself to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. One of the most striking aspects of his character development is his emphasis on humility and self-discipline. Despite being the emperor of Rome, he reminds himself to avoid arrogance and to treat others with fairness and compassion. His meditations on mortality and the transient nature of life also reveal a deep sense of introspection and acceptance. Over time, you can see him becoming more resilient, learning to detach from external outcomes and focus on his inner moral compass. His journey is not about achieving perfection but about striving for it every day, making 'Meditations' a timeless guide to personal growth.

Another layer of his development is his relationship with Stoic philosophy. Marcus doesn’t just preach Stoic principles; he wrestles with them, showing how challenging it is to live up to these ideals. He often admonishes himself for failing to control his temper or for being too attached to worldly success. This honesty makes his character relatable and human. His reflections on the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of serving the common good also highlight his evolution as a leader. By the end of the book, you get the sense that Marcus has become more grounded, more aware of his place in the universe, and more committed to living a life of virtue. His development is subtle but profound, making 'Meditations' a deeply personal and inspiring read.

How do personal reflections in 'Meditations' influence Stoic philosophy?

4 answers2025-04-09 11:58:34

Reading 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius feels like having a deep, personal conversation with one of history's greatest minds. The book is essentially a series of reflections and notes to himself, which makes it incredibly intimate and raw. What stands out is how Marcus constantly reminds himself to stay grounded, to focus on what he can control, and to accept the impermanence of life. These reflections are the backbone of Stoic philosophy, emphasizing self-discipline, rationality, and emotional resilience.

What I find fascinating is how Marcus doesn’t just preach these ideas; he wrestles with them. He admits his struggles, his frustrations, and his doubts, which makes his philosophy feel more human and relatable. For example, he often reflects on the importance of not being swayed by external events or the opinions of others. This idea of inner sovereignty is central to Stoicism, and Marcus’s personal reflections bring it to life in a way that feels practical and applicable to everyday life.

Another key aspect is his focus on the interconnectedness of all things. He frequently reminds himself that we are part of a larger whole, and that our actions should contribute to the greater good. This sense of duty and responsibility is a core tenet of Stoicism, and Marcus’s reflections make it clear that this isn’t just an abstract idea but something to be lived and practiced daily. His writings are a testament to the power of self-reflection in shaping not just personal philosophy but also one’s character and actions.

In what ways do 'Meditations' address the struggle with inner turmoil?

5 answers2025-04-09 01:21:47

In 'Meditations', Marcus Aurelius tackles inner turmoil by advocating for self-discipline and rationality. He emphasizes the importance of controlling one’s thoughts and emotions, suggesting that external events are neutral and it’s our perception that shapes our experience. His stoic philosophy teaches that inner peace comes from accepting what we cannot change and focusing on our own virtues. This approach is incredibly practical, offering tools to navigate anxiety, anger, and fear. Reading 'Meditations' feels like having a wise mentor guiding you through life’s chaos. For those interested in similar themes, 'The Daily Stoic' by Ryan Holiday provides modern insights into stoic practices.

Aurelius also delves into the transient nature of life, urging readers to live in the present. He reminds us that worrying about the future or dwelling on the past only fuels inner turmoil. By practicing gratitude and mindfulness, we can cultivate a sense of calm. His reflections on mortality and the impermanence of material possessions are particularly grounding. This book is a timeless companion for anyone seeking to quiet their mind and find clarity amidst life’s challenges.

How does Marcus Aurelius' 'Meditations' explore emotional resilience?

3 answers2025-04-09 19:08:17

Reading 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius feels like having a wise mentor guiding you through life’s chaos. The book dives deep into emotional resilience by teaching you to focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t. Marcus emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, reminding us that our reactions to events are more important than the events themselves. He encourages a mindset of acceptance, urging readers to see challenges as opportunities for growth. His reflections on impermanence and the transient nature of life also help build resilience by reducing attachment to outcomes. It’s a timeless guide that feels incredibly relevant, especially when life gets tough.

How does 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius correlate with 'The Art of War'?

3 answers2025-04-09 15:01:17

Reading 'Meditations' by Marcus Aurelius and 'The Art of War' by Sun Tzu feels like exploring two sides of the same coin. Both are timeless works, but they approach life and strategy from different angles. 'Meditations' is deeply introspective, focusing on self-discipline, inner peace, and understanding one's place in the universe. It’s about mastering your mind and emotions. On the other hand, 'The Art of War' is more external, teaching how to navigate conflict, outthink opponents, and achieve victory in battles, whether literal or metaphorical. What ties them together is their emphasis on control—whether it’s controlling your thoughts or controlling a battlefield. Both books stress the importance of preparation, adaptability, and clarity of purpose. While Marcus Aurelius writes for the individual seeking inner harmony, Sun Tzu writes for the leader seeking external success. Together, they offer a holistic guide to navigating life’s challenges, both within and without.

Explore and read good novels for free
Free access to a vast number of good novels on GoodNovel app. Download the books you like and read anywhere & anytime.
Read books for free on the app
SCAN CODE TO READ ON APP
DMCA.com Protection Status