>Aristotle therefore rightly says: Happiness belongs to those who are self-sufficient (Ethics to Eudemus, VII. 2). For all external sources of happiness and pleasure are by nature extremely uncertain, precarious, fleeting, and subject to change; hence, even under the most favorable circumstances, they can easily be exhausted; indeed, this is inevitable, since they are not always within our reach. In old age, almost all these sources of happiness inevitably become exhausted, for we are abandoned by love, humor, the pleasure of travel and riding, and the ability to socialize; friends and relatives are also taken from us by death. What one possesses in oneself acquires, at this period, capital importance, for it is the only thing that will stand the test of time; at any age, this is and remains the only genuine and lasting source of happiness. There is not much to be gained from the world; misery and pain fill it; if a man escapes them, boredom will be lurking around every corner.
>>24480100 (OP)
>Besides, baseness and wickedness rule the world, and folly prevails. Fate is cruel, and humanity is contemptible. In such a world, the individual who is rich in himself is like a bright, warm, and cheerful dwelling amid the snow and frost of a December night. Therefore, the most fortunate lot on this earth is undoubtedly to possess a distinguished and rich individuality, and particularly good intellectual gifts; this is the happiest lot, though perhaps not in the end the brightest.
>Besides, baseness and wickedness rule the world, and folly prevails. Fate is cruel, and humanity is contemptible. In such a world, the individual who is rich in himself is like a bright, warm, and cheerful dwelling amid the snow and frost of a December night. Therefore, the most fortunate lot on this earth is undoubtedly to possess a distinguished and rich individuality, and particularly good intellectual gifts; this is the happiest lot, though perhaps not in the end the brightest.
