The other morning I feared for our bougainvillea. The fear was based on recent actions by people living nearby. It’s taken years of care to have it grow so large and lovely and the idea that its beauty could be harmed put me in a foul mood. The bougainvillea is like a loyal friend who gives solace and pleasure because that’s what beauty does.

Not knowing how to respond to this fear, I went straight to Marcus Aurelius for advice. And found it: “Be like the rocky headland on which the waves constantly break. It stands firm, and round it the seething waters are laid to rest.” (Meditations 4:49)

The visualization of someone as a wave shattered into a mist of foam* just by my presence gave me much delight. So much so that I immediately felt better and tranquilly went on with my day.

*Metaphorically, of course!