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Moral Letters Vol I

Seneca

§ Section 1

On good company

62:1

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.

1.

We are deceived by those who would have us believe that a multitude of affairs blocks their pursuit of liberal studies; they make a pretence of their engagements, and multiply them, when their engagements are merely with themselves.

As for me, Lucilius, my time is free; it is indeed free, and wherever I am, I am master of myself.

For I do not surrender myself to my affairs, but loan myself to them, and I do not hunt out excuses for wasting my time.

And wherever I am situated, I carry on my own meditations and ponder in my mind some wholesome thought.