On the god within us
41:6
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.
6.
What, then, is such a soul?
One which is resplendent with no external good, but only with its own.
For what is more foolish than to praise in a man the qualities which come from without?
And what is more insane than to marvel at characteristics which may at the next instant be passed on to someone else?
A golden bit does not make a better horse.
The lion with gilded mane, in process of being trained and forced by weariness to endure the decoration, is sent into the arena in quite a different way from the wild lion whose spirit is unbroken; the latter, indeed, bold in his attack, as nature wished him to be, impressive because of his wild appearance,—and it is his glory that none can look upon him without fear,—is favoured in preference to the other lion, that languid and gilded brute.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the god within us
Location: Chapter 41, Section 6
Content:
6.
What, then, is such a soul?
One which is resplendent with no external good, but only with its own.
For what is more foolish than to praise in a man the qualities which come from without?
And what is more insane than to marvel at characteristics which may at the next instant be passed on to someone else?
A golden bit does not make a better horse.
The lion with gilded mane, in process of being trained and forced by weariness to endure the decoration, is sent into the arena in quite a different way from the wild lion whose spirit is unbroken; the latter, indeed, bold in his attack, as nature wished him to be, impressive because of his wild appearance,—and it is his glory that none can look upon him without fear,—is favoured in preference to the other lion, that languid and gilded brute.