I never desired to please the rabble. What pleased them, I did not learn; and what I knew was far removed from their understanding.

Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.

Misfortune seldom intrudes upon the wise man; his greatest and highest interests are directed by reason throughout the course of life.

The pleasant life is not produced by continual drinking and dancing, nor sexual intercourse, nor rare dishes of sea food and other delicacies of a luxurious table. On the contrary, it is produced by sober reasoning which examines the motives for every choice and avoidance, driving away beliefs which are the source of mental disturbances.

It is possible to provide security against other ills, but as far as death is concerned, we men live in a city without walls.

The things you really need are few and easy to come by; but the things you can imagine you need are infinite, and you will never be satisfied.

Those desires that do not bring pain if they are not satisfied are not necessary; and they are easily thrust aside whenever to satisfy them appears difficult or likely to cause injury.