Commentary on Meditations: B6:10

Either a stew, an intricate web, and dispersal into atoms: or unity, order, and providence. Now if the former, why do I even wish to spend my time in a world compounded at random and in like confusion? Why have any concern other than somehow, some time, to become 'earth unto earth'? And why actually am I troubled? Dispersal will come on me, whatever I do. But if the latter is true, I revere it, I stand firm, I take courage in that which directs all.

This ‘either or’ idea is often repeated and discussed, Marcus revisits the notion of whether there is a god (or gods) or not.  Ultimately, the conclusion is the same whether you believe in god(s) or not.  In the end, you will die.

Additionally, if you believe in atoms or a randomly governed universe, and since you are a rational and reasonable person, then you ought not to manage your life in a random manner.  Rather, you should use your intellect and reason to govern and organize your life.

But if you do believe in unity, order and providence, then love it and embrace it.  Live life knowing full well that the ultimate directing reason over the universe knows all, sees all and you, as a part of that order, has a part: which is to act well your part; use your reason; live according to nature. And living according to Nature means to use your reasoning and God-given intellect to live your life.  Don't be like beasts who don't reason or think.

(see also Citadel p. 43)