How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter)
Quote #1
And the end for rational creatures is to follow the reason and the rule of that most venerable archetype of a governing state—the Universe. (2.16)
Marcus has one overriding goal as he moves through his life: to be more in tune with his nature, which comes to him from the nature of the Whole, the reason that creates and directs everything in the universe. This is trickle-down governance, something possible because Marcus's universe is strictly hierarchical, right down to the irrational creatures of the earth. Everything has its purpose, and to buck against that is to cut yourself off not just from other humans, but from the gods as well.
Quote #2
What then can escort us on our way? One thing, and one thing only: philosophy. This consists in keeping the divinity within us inviolate and free from harm, master of pleasure and pain, doing nothing without aim, truth, or integrity, and independent of others' action or failure to act. (2.17.2)
As you read Marcus's thoughts, it'll probably become clear to you that his philosophical principles are both totally necessary for his sanity and utterly challenging to follow. However, the payoff is big. If a person can cultivate that inner fortress of reason, there is nothing that can ever touch him or her again. This kind of fierce independence is the hallmark of Stoicism.
Quote #3
You should take no action unwillingly, selfishly, uncritically, or with conflicting motives. Do not dress your thoughts up in smart finery: do not be a gabbler or a meddler. (3.5)
Marcus wants to be a straight talker. From the beginning of his work, it's clear that he has no love for rhetoric, the art of talking real fancy. He doesn't want to lie in order to persuade, nor does he want to take any other crooked path to his goal. Simply put, he wants to be a good man. The only way to do that is to be transparently honest in all that he does, and to do all for the good of the community.