Reckon the worth of each day →

The largest portion of life passes while we are doing ill, a good share while we are doing nothing, and the whole while we are doing that which is not to the purpose. What man can you show me who places any value on his time, who reckons the worth of each day, who understands that he is dying daily? For we are mistaken when we look forward to death; The major portion of death is already passed. Whatever years be behind us are in death’s hands.

~ Seneca

Elsewhere, this is 4a191. — slipbox


Who is not eager? →

Who – only let him be a man and intent upon honor – is not eager for the honorable ordeal and prompt to assume perilous duties? To what energetic man is not idleness a punishment?

~ Seneca

Elsewhere, this is 4a126. — slipbox


Virtus →

Without an adversary, virtus shrivels. We see how great and how viable virtus is when, by endurance, it shows what it is capable of.

~ Seneca

Elsewhere, this is 4a13. — slipbox


Prove yourself →

No man is more unhappy than he who never faces adversity. For he is not permitted to prove himself.

~ Seneca

Elsewhere, this is 4a97. — slipbox


Compassion →

All cruelty springs from weakness.

~ Seneca

Elsewhere, this is 4a118. — slipbox