The world is mere change, and this life, opinion.

My city and state are Rome. But as a human being? The world. So for me, "good" can only mean what's good for both communities.

Retire into thyself. The rational principle which rules has this nature, that it is content with itself when it does what is just, and so secures tranquility.

Frightened of change? But what can exist without it? What's closer to nature's heart? Can you take a hot bath and leave the firewood as it was? Eat food without transforming it? Can any vital process take place without something being changed? Can't you see? It's just the same with you - and just as vital to nature.

Try to live the life of the good man who is more than content with what is allocated to him.

Do not indulge in dreams of having what you have not, but reckon up the chief of the blessings you do possess, and then thankfully remember how you would crave for them if they were not yours.

The cucumber is bitter? Then throw it out. There are brambles in the path? Then go around. That's all you need to know.