This quote suggests that those who are constantly reading may be the most lazy or ignorant. This may seem counterintuitive as reading is often associated with knowledge and learning. However, the key word here is “everlasting.” It implies a ceaseless, unending process of reading without pause for reflection, understanding, or application of the knowledge gained.

The laziness Aurelius refers to isn’t physical, but intellectual. If one is always reading without truly understanding or applying the knowledge, they are taking the easy way out, not engaging with the material or thinking critically about it. They may accumulate facts, but not wisdom or understanding.

The ignorance Aurelius speaks of is not a lack of knowledge, but a lack of insight or wisdom. Everlasting readers may know a lot of facts, but they may not understand the deeper meaning or implications of those facts. They may not question, analyze, or synthesize the information they consume.

In today’s world, this quote is even more relevant. We are bombarded with information from the internet, social media, and 24-hour news cycles. It’s easy to become an “everlasting reader,” constantly consuming information without taking the time to reflect on its meaning or relevance.

In terms of personal development, the quote encourages us to not just passively consume information, but to actively engage with it. This means taking the time to reflect on what we read, to question it, to connect it with other knowledge, and to apply it in our lives. It’s a call to be more mindful and thoughtful in our consumption of information, to seek understanding and wisdom, not just facts. It’s a reminder that true learning requires effort, engagement, and critical thinking.