3.
What is the happy life?
It is peace of mind, and lasting tranquillity.
This will be yours if you possess greatness of soul; it will be yours if you possess the steadfastness that resolutely clings to a good judgment just reached.
How does a man reach this condition?
By gaining a complete view of truth, by maintaining, in all that he does, order, measure, fitness, and a will that is inoffensive and kindly, that is intent upon reason and never departs therefrom, that commands at the same time love and admiration.
In short, to give you the principle in brief compass, the wise man’s soul ought to be such as would be proper for a god.
Book: Moral Letters Vol II
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the happy life
Location: Chapter 92, Section 3
Content:
3.
What is the happy life?
It is peace of mind, and lasting tranquillity.
This will be yours if you possess greatness of soul; it will be yours if you possess the steadfastness that resolutely clings to a good judgment just reached.
How does a man reach this condition?
By gaining a complete view of truth, by maintaining, in all that he does, order, measure, fitness, and a will that is inoffensive and kindly, that is intent upon reason and never departs therefrom, that commands at the same time love and admiration.
In short, to give you the principle in brief compass, the wise man’s soul ought to be such as would be proper for a god.