The podcast delves into Marcus Aurelius's heartfelt devotion to his wife, Faustina, amidst his duties as a Roman emperor. It raises the timeless question of balancing family and responsibility. The discussion emphasizes the importance of scheduling quality time with loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own calendars, reminding them that prioritizing family shouldn't be an afterthought.
04:07
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Marcus Aurelius's Love for Faustina
Marcus Aurelius loved his wife, Faustina, despite rumors of infidelity.
He even wrote about preferring exile with her over life in the palace without her.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Schedule Family Time
Schedule family time on your calendar like any important appointment.
Your calendar reveals your true priorities, so make sure family time is reflected there.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Marcus even wrote a testament to his love for his wife and their life together in a letter to his tutor Fronto. “I call the gods to witness,” he wrote, “that I would I were now living in exile with [Faustina] rather than without her on the Palatine.” Sure, the palaces were nice and so was power. He had an important job. But none of it was better than spending time with his lovely partner.
It’s a wonderful sentiment, but is it true? Marcus Aurelius spent years away from Rome, fighting wars, visiting the provinces. He spent time in Greece, as all students of philosophy considered a must. He had cases to adjudicate, dignitaries to receive, things to write. No doubt he spent a lot of time reading, a lot of time training, a lot of time committed to serving the people of Rome.
It means putting the time on our calendar, scheduling play time, and sticking to it. Because you may be able to deceive yourself, but at the end of the day, your calendar doesn’t lie.
The Daily Dad