Tell Yourself: Not 'New', But 'True'

The Roman emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius once wrote, “The art of living is more similar to a fight than to a dance.” Is this truly the case? It seems so, judging by the world around us and our own inner experiences. But what does “the art of living” really mean? It means to live well.

Living well doesn’t mean a life free of problems, drifting in a never-ending limbo. Such a life would be empty and dull, wouldn’t it? What makes life worth living is its constant renewal, grounded in timeless principles. This involves continuous confrontation with ourselves and with others.

However, daily challenges and relationships don’t have to be a struggle. They can be an opportunity for creativity and awareness. This book explores how we can embrace the art of living through mindful engagement with life’s ever-changing landscape, transforming struggles into opportunities for growth and fulfillment.

Elsa Franco is an Italian-Saudi author and educator whose rich life experiences across Italy, Saudi Arabia, and the USA have shaped her unique perspective. A lifelong student of ancient cultural wisdom, Elsa not only studies but also actively applies these timeless principles to her own life, achieving a serene existence. Through her writing and teaching, she aspires to share this profound tranquility with others, demonstrating by example that serenity is not just a concept, but a lived reality.