On the value of retirement
36:1
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.
1.
Encourage your friend to despise stout-heartedly those who upbraid him because he has sought the shade of retirement and has abdicated his career of honours, and, though he might have attained more, has preferred tranquillity to them all.
Let him prove daily to these detractors how wisely he has looked out for his own interests.
Those whom men envy will continue to march past him; some will be pushed out of the ranks, and others will fall.
Prosperity is a turbulent thing; it torments itself.
It stirs the brain in more ways than one, goading men on to various aims,—some to power, and others to high living.
Some it puffs up; others it slackens and wholly enervates.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the value of retirement
Location: Chapter 36, Section 1
Content:
1.
Encourage your friend to despise stout-heartedly those who upbraid him because he has sought the shade of retirement and has abdicated his career of honours, and, though he might have attained more, has preferred tranquillity to them all.
Let him prove daily to these detractors how wisely he has looked out for his own interests.
Those whom men envy will continue to march past him; some will be pushed out of the ranks, and others will fall.
Prosperity is a turbulent thing; it torments itself.
It stirs the brain in more ways than one, goading men on to various aims,—some to power, and others to high living.
Some it puffs up; others it slackens and wholly enervates.