The document discusses why people are never satisfied with their natural lot in life and are always striving to outdo their neighbors or attain what others have, leading to a never-ending contest of wealth. It notes that in such competitions, there is always someone wealthier ahead, so people focus only on passing the next person and not appreciating what they already have. The document concludes by saying few people own up to having had a happy life or retire content with past blessings.
The document discusses why people are never satisfied with their natural lot in life and are always striving to outdo their neighbors or attain what others have, leading to a never-ending contest of wealth. It notes that in such competitions, there is always someone wealthier ahead, so people focus only on passing the next person and not appreciating what they already have. The document concludes by saying few people own up to having had a happy life or retire content with past blessings.
The document discusses why people are never satisfied with their natural lot in life and are always striving to outdo their neighbors or attain what others have, leading to a never-ending contest of wealth. It notes that in such competitions, there is always someone wealthier ahead, so people focus only on passing the next person and not appreciating what they already have. The document concludes by saying few people own up to having had a happy life or retire content with past blessings.
The document discusses why people are never satisfied with their natural lot in life and are always striving to outdo their neighbors or attain what others have, leading to a never-ending contest of wealth. It notes that in such competitions, there is always someone wealthier ahead, so people focus only on passing the next person and not appreciating what they already have. The document concludes by saying few people own up to having had a happy life or retire content with past blessings.
Still discontented with his natural lot, Still praising those who have what he has not? Why should he waste with very spite, to see His neighbour has a milkier cow than he, Ne'er think how much he's richer than the mass, But always strive this man or that to pass? In such a contest, speed we as we may, There's some one wealthier ever in the way. So from their base when vying chariots pour, Each driver presses on the car before, Wastes not a thought on rivals overpast, But leaves them to lag on among the last. Hence comes it that the man is rarely seen Who owns that his a happy life has been, And, thankful for past blessings, with good will Retires, like one who has enjoyed his fill. Enough: you'll think I've rifled the scrutore Of blind Crispinus, if I prose on more. Omnibus hoc vitium