On noble aspirations
39:4
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.
4.
It is the quality of a great soul to scorn great things and to prefer that which is ordinary rather than that which is too great.
For the one condition is useful and life-giving; but the other does harm just because it is excessive.
Similarly, too rich a soil makes the grain fall flat, branches break down under too heavy a load, excessive productiveness does not bring fruit to ripeness.
This is the case with the soul also; for it is ruined by uncontrolled prosperity, which is used not only to the detriment of others, but also to the detriment of itself.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On noble aspirations
Location: Chapter 39, Section 4
Content:
4.
It is the quality of a great soul to scorn great things and to prefer that which is ordinary rather than that which is too great.
For the one condition is useful and life-giving; but the other does harm just because it is excessive.
Similarly, too rich a soil makes the grain fall flat, branches break down under too heavy a load, excessive productiveness does not bring fruit to ripeness.
This is the case with the soul also; for it is ruined by uncontrolled prosperity, which is used not only to the detriment of others, but also to the detriment of itself.