I recently read Meditations: A New Translation by Marcus Aurelius. It was really interesting and impactful.
It’s a sort of diary written by a Roman emperor towards the end of his lifetime (A.D. 121-180) that is presented as a collection of books. The entries vary considerably in length and subject matter but it isn’t a recording of day to day activities but more about behavioral observations and thought experiments.
I discovered it as a follow on to some readings about stoicism and found that it resonated with me. I like the general approach embodied in this world view that we create our own reality in our heads and fate is uncontrollable. Good and bad stuff will happen in life and we decide how we respond.
To me, that’s the only way to live. Otherwise, you are completely controlled by events and get consumed by petty jealousy, fear and other negative emotions. Live in the moment, take what comes your way and make the best of it. It’s simple but it works.