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Moral Letters Vol I

Seneca

§ Section 7

On festivals and fasting

18:7

Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.

Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.

7.

You need not suppose that I mean meals like Timon’s, or “paupers’ huts,” or any other device which luxurious millionaires use to beguile the tedium of their lives.

Let the pallet be a real one, and the coarse cloak; let the bread be hard and grimy.

Endure all this for three or four days at a time, sometimes for more, so that it may be a test of yourself instead of a mere hobby.

Then, I assure you, my dear Lucilius, you will leap for joy when filled with a pennyworth of food, and you will understand that a man’s peace of mind does not depend upon Fortune; for, even when angry she grants enough for our needs.