Commentary on Meditations: B7:3-4

The empty pomp of a procession, plays on the stage, flocks and herds, jousting shows, a bone thrown to puppies, tit-bits into the fishponds, ants toiling and carrying, the scurries of frightened mice, puppets dancing on their strings. Well, amid all this you must keep yourself tolerant - do not snort at them. But bear in mind that a person's worth is measured by the worth of what he values.

In conversation one ought to follow closely what is said, in any impulse to follow closely what takes place. In the latter case, to see immediately the intended object of reference: in the former, to watch carefully what is meant.

Life goes on and one.  Parties, parades, animals being herded, people attending sporting events, concerts, dogs eating treats, fishing, ants building mounds followed by kids smashing them with their feet and then the ants rebuild, mice, snakes, feral hogs ... the drum of life never stops.  Never mind the endless procession.  Rather, focus on virtue.  Virtue is the sole good.

The second passage is somewhat cryptic.  In a nutshell, it seems to me to be saying, "pay attention!" when having a conversation.

(see also Citadel p. 48)