Writing the book is one thing. Preparing it for readers is another. As a book editor and Amazon publisher, I help authors refine their manuscripts, fix what’s not working, and get their books properly prepared for Amazon KDP. A clean, well-edited book builds trust with readers and gives your story the presentation it deserves. If you’re working on a book and need editing or publishing support, feel free to reach out.

In closing the rumination over Book 1, we’ll look at Marcus Aurelius’s reflections on his adoptive father, the Emperor Antoninus. “I also observed his habit of careful inquiry in all matters of deliberation, and his persistence, and that he never stopped his investigation through being satisfied with appearances which first present themselves; and that his disposition was to keep his friends, and not to be quickly tired of them, nor to be extravagant in his displays of affection.” My thoughts: It is apparent that Marcus Aurelius had a profound level of respect for his adoptive father. The paragraph demonstrates a mere fraction of the level of respect, focused on Antoninus’s ability to go beyond superficial interest. And that’s a point I’d like to visit. It seems these days, many people favour immediate gratification. We see it in fast fashion brands like Shein, social media, and pop songs with meaningless lyrics. Aside from these, we see a modern society mired by false relationships, in what is Marcus Aurelius might consider “extravagant in his displays of affection.” Standards are dropping because humans are getting easily satisfied. It’s quantity over quality these days. I am concerned about traditional arts like ballet, classic film, and literature (I’m most vexed about this). Influencers are building pretentious relationships en masse with their fans for the sake of popularity, catfish dating horror stories, and let’s not get started with the prevalence of fake news. So what we can learn here perhaps, is that it’s critical to view the world with greater involvement. Don’t blindly trust what you see on your RSS feed. We need to relearn what it means to be intellectuals and resharpen our faculties. What are your thoughts fellow writers?

The following was taken from Book 1: “From Maximus I learned self-mastery, and not to be led aside by anything; and cheerfulness in all circumstances, as well as in illness; and a good mixture in of gentleness and dignity in one’s character, and to do what was set before me without complaining.” My thoughts: Self-actualization lies at the top of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. It’s the Übermensch state alluded by Nietzsche that transcends societal boundaries. But how do we achieve that? Not simply by believing, and waiting. We reach that glorious state through action while inertia and procrastination put on the brakes. Marcus Aurelius reminds us that if we work without complaint and focus on positivity, we achieve mastery over the self. What are the steps that you’re taking to reach that potential? What is the destiny that you’ve set for yourself?

Good day to all you amazing writers, editors, and content creators! This week I’ll be reflecting on the seminal works of Marcus Aurelius from Meditations. There’s a wealth of information in the masterpiece and I urge you to give the book a read when you have the chance. It’s been life-changing for me to say the least. So here’s how I’ll be doing this week-long series. I’ll share a quote from the legendary book and attempt to interpret the message and relate it to my life. I’ll conclude by inviting you to chime in with your thoughts. Just like the holy Bible, there’s no one true way to interpret Meditations. So it’s always great to hear varying perspectives. Today’s reflection comes from Book 1 of Meditations (Marcus wrote 12 in all). “From Catulus, not to be indifferent when a friend finds fault, even if he should find fault without reason, but to try to restore him to his usual disposition; and to be ready to speak well of teachers, as it is reported of Domitius and Athenodotus: and to love my children truly.” My thoughts: The beautiful thing about Meditations is that there’s no need to Google the people who Marcus Aurelius alludes to in his writings. Each of us probably know a “Domitius” or “Catulus” in our lives. And that’s why the book has remained practical for centuries. The quote felt fitting since I had been reflecting about my professional relationship with editors over the last week. To me, an editor is like a teacher (the good ones at least). They’re meant to help you create the most powerful impact with your writing. They guide you through syntax, style, and delivery. They’re not the enemy. Yet, I’m guilty of losing my cool with editors more times than I’m proud to admit. You see, when I slow down to mull over my editors’ feedback, they actually make sense! I just need to accept that criticism, let it boil for a bit, and it starts to fall into place. I guess it’s just so easy to become defensive over your writing when you take full ownership of it. And more so when it’s your pride and joy; your bread and butter.

Thank you for accepting me into this group. I started this year with Yoga on the beach. I've reread my works, with edits and tweaks. I noticed my craft was anchored in loss. Im rewiring my brain to find joy without a cost.