On values
42:5
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.
5.
Do you remember how, when you declared that a certain person was under your influence, I pronounced him fickle and a bird of passage, and said that you held him not by the foot but merely by a wing?
Was I mistaken?
You grasped him only by a feather; he left it in your hands and escaped.
You know what an exhibition he afterwards made of himself before you, how many of the things he attempted were to recoil upon his own head.
He did not see that in endangering others he was tottering to his own downfall.
He did not reflect how burdensome were the objects which he was bent upon attaining, even if they were not superfluous.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On values
Location: Chapter 42, Section 5
Content:
5.
Do you remember how, when you declared that a certain person was under your influence, I pronounced him fickle and a bird of passage, and said that you held him not by the foot but merely by a wing?
Was I mistaken?
You grasped him only by a feather; he left it in your hands and escaped.
You know what an exhibition he afterwards made of himself before you, how many of the things he attempted were to recoil upon his own head.
He did not see that in endangering others he was tottering to his own downfall.
He did not reflect how burdensome were the objects which he was bent upon attaining, even if they were not superfluous.