Quotes from David Fideler

Loving to rush around is not proof someone is hardworking—it's only the restlessness of an agitated mind.

The time that has passed is ours to keep, and nothing is safer than that which was.

How many things we acquire only because others bought them and because they are in a good many homes. Many of our problems are explained by the fact that we copy the example of others: rather than following reason, we are led astray by convention. If only a few people did something, we wouldn't imitate them. But when the majority starts to act a certain way, we follow along, too, as if something should be more honorable just because it's more frequent.11

What you have actually achieved will only be clear when you take your last breath.

We can now see that the alternative to "preoccupation" and racing around in a flurry of busyness is learning how to live more deeply.

It's pleasant to be with yourself as long as possible—if you've made yourself into someone worth spending time with."22

the first proof of a stable mind is its ability to stay in one place and enjoy its own company

Seneca then suddenly changes the subject to talk about selecting and reading the right books, to discuss how "not wandering" is vital in reading also: "If you wish to take in something that will settle reliably in your mind," he says, "you must dwell with a few chosen thinkers and be nourished by their works. Someone who is everywhere is nowhere. Those who travel constantly end up with many acquaintances, but no real friends."7

Sometimes a friend can be a superb mentor. Often, someone who knows you well can offer candid feedback that would feel out of place—or even hostile—coming from a stranger.

Nature itself is a dynamic unfolding power, yet it is also a power manifest in the human psyche. Deep within our being, our innermost nature is nature itself.

While letters can embody ongoing conversations, social media is primarily made up of comments—and those are two very different things.

Whether you are working for those closest to you now or working for future generations, both approaches are worthy of admiration. Seneca shows us that there are countless ways we can all contribute to society, whether benefiting one or many. Regardless of our individual skills and inclinations, there's a way open for everyone.

It is difficulties that reveal a person's character,