On philosophy and pedigrees
44:7
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.
Where, then, lies the mistake, since all men crave the happy life?
It is that they regard the means for producing happiness as happiness itself, and, while seeking happiness, they are really fleeing from it.
For although the sum and substance of the happy life is unalloyed freedom from care, and though the secret of such freedom is unshaken confidence, yet men gather together that which causes worry, and, while travelling life’s treacherous road, not only have burdens to bear, but even draw burdens to themselves; hence they recede farther and farther from the achievement of that which they seek, and the more effort they expend, the more they hinder themselves and are set back.
This is what happens when you hurry through a maze; the faster you go, the worse you are entangled.
Farewell.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On philosophy and pedigrees
Location: Chapter 44, Section 7
Content:
7.
Where, then, lies the mistake, since all men crave the happy life?
It is that they regard the means for producing happiness as happiness itself, and, while seeking happiness, they are really fleeing from it.
For although the sum and substance of the happy life is unalloyed freedom from care, and though the secret of such freedom is unshaken confidence, yet men gather together that which causes worry, and, while travelling life’s treacherous road, not only have burdens to bear, but even draw burdens to themselves; hence they recede farther and farther from the achievement of that which they seek, and the more effort they expend, the more they hinder themselves and are set back.
This is what happens when you hurry through a maze; the faster you go, the worse you are entangled.
Farewell.