Date With a Philosopher

“If you’ve seen the present, you’ve seen all things, from time immemorial into all of eternity. For everything that happens is related and the same.” Marcus Aurelius  

The woman, who could pass for a fashion model, closes the book gently, her finger holding her place, and looks out the window at the city skyline. The night is still, but her mind is anything but. She begins to think, her voice taking on a reflective tone.
 
What we do this day... it's what humans have always done. No need to get into emotional distress about what is happening in any given moment.
 
She stands up, pacing slowly, her reflection in the glass mirroring her internal struggle.
 
Men and women have betrayed their commitments throughout history. And so, a man will betray his marriage vows at my insistence tonight.
 
She pauses, her gaze fixed on her own reflection as if confronting herself.
 
Just go with the flow. Let your body be filled with pleasure and enjoy the ride.
 
A flicker of doubt crosses her face, but she shakes it off, attempting to fortify her resolve.
 
Marcus Aurelius knew the constancy of human experience... the cycles of virtue and vice. But does that make it right? Does that justify my actions?
 
She turns away from the window, her expression hardening as she makes her decision.
 
The present is all we have, yet it's as ancient as time itself. Tonight, I'll be a part of that timeless tale.
 
With a deep breath, the woman picks up her purse from her bed and walks toward the door.