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Moral Letters Vol I

Seneca

§ Section 4

On harmful prayers

60:4

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.

Therefore those who, as Sallust puts it, “hearken to their bellies,” should be numbered among the animals, and not among men; and certain men, indeed, should be numbered, not even among the animals, but among the dead.

He really lives who is made use of by many; he really lives who makes use of himself.

Those men, however, who creep into a hole and grow torpid are no better off in their homes than if they were in their tombs.

Right there on the marble lintel of the house of such a man you may inscribe his name, for he has died before he is dead.

Farewell.