Moderation in desires leads to contentment from "summary" of Stoic Philosophy of Seneca Essays and Letters by Lucius Annaeus Seneca
The wise man, according to Seneca, is one who is able to moderate his desires and find contentment in the present moment. He does not allow himself to be consumed by an insatiable hunger for more, but rather learns to appreciate what he already has. By practicing moderation, the wise man is able to avoid the pitfalls of excess and live a life of tranquility and peace. Seneca argues that it is not wealth or material possessions that bring true happiness, but rather the ability to control one's desires and find contentment in the present moment. The wise man does not constantly seek out new pleasures or possessions, but instead learns to be satisfied with what he already has. By practicing moderation, he is able to avoid the constant cycle of desire and disappointment that plagues so many people. In Seneca's view, it is only through moderation that true contentment can be achieved. By learning to control our desires and appreciate the sim...
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