50.
It requires the same use of reason, I am fully aware, for a man to endure prosperity well and also to endure misfortune bravely.
That man may be just as brave who sleeps in front of the ramparts without fear of danger when no enemy attacks the camp, as the man who, when the tendons of his legs have been severed, holds himself up on his knees and does not let fall his weapons; but it is to the blood-stained soldier returning from the front that men cry: “Well done, thou hero!” And therefore I should bestow greater praise upon those goods that have stood trial, and show courage, and have fought it out with fortune.
Book: Moral Letters Vol II
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On various aspects of virtue
Location: Chapter 66, Section 50
Content:
50.
It requires the same use of reason, I am fully aware, for a man to endure prosperity well and also to endure misfortune bravely.
That man may be just as brave who sleeps in front of the ramparts without fear of danger when no enemy attacks the camp, as the man who, when the tendons of his legs have been severed, holds himself up on his knees and does not let fall his weapons; but it is to the blood-stained soldier returning from the front that men cry: “Well done, thou hero!” And therefore I should bestow greater praise upon those goods that have stood trial, and show courage, and have fought it out with fortune.