On pleasure and joy
59:11
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.
11.
What hinders us most of all is that we are too readily satisfied with ourselves; if we meet with someone who calls us good men, or sensible men, or holy men, we see ourselves in his description.
Not content with praise in moderation, we accept everything that shameless flattery heaps upon us, as if it were our due.
We agree with those who declare us to be the best and wisest of men, although we know that they are given to much lying.
And we are so self-complacent that we desire praise for certain actions when we are especially addicted to the very opposite.
Yonder person hears himself called “most gentle” when he is inflicting tortures, or “most generous” when he is engaged in looting, or “most temperate” when he is in the midst of drunkenness and lust.
Thus it follows that we are unwilling to be reformed, just because we believe ourselves to be the best of men.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On pleasure and joy
Location: Chapter 59, Section 11
Content:
11.
What hinders us most of all is that we are too readily satisfied with ourselves; if we meet with someone who calls us good men, or sensible men, or holy men, we see ourselves in his description.
Not content with praise in moderation, we accept everything that shameless flattery heaps upon us, as if it were our due.
We agree with those who declare us to be the best and wisest of men, although we know that they are given to much lying.
And we are so self-complacent that we desire praise for certain actions when we are especially addicted to the very opposite.
Yonder person hears himself called “most gentle” when he is inflicting tortures, or “most generous” when he is engaged in looting, or “most temperate” when he is in the midst of drunkenness and lust.
Thus it follows that we are unwilling to be reformed, just because we believe ourselves to be the best of men.