Though a tame submission to injuries which it is in our power to
redress, be generally esteemed a base and a dishonourable thing; yet, to
resist where there is no probability, or even hopes, of our getting the
better, may also be looked upon as the effect of a blind temerity, and
perhaps of a weak understanding. The strokes of fortune are oftentimes
as irresistible as they are severe; and he who, with an impatient
reluctant spirit, fights against her, instead of alleviating, does but
double her blows upon himself. A person of a quiet still temper, whether
it is given him by Nature, or acquired by art, calmly composes himself,
in the midst of a storm, so as to elude the shock, or receive it with
the least detriment; like a prudent experienced sailor, who is swimming
to the shore from a wrecked vessel in a swelling sea, he does not oppose
the fury of the waves, but stoops and gives way, that they may roll over
his head without obstruction. The doctrine of absolute submission in all
cases is an absurd dogmatical precept, with nothing but ignorance and
superstition to support it: but, upon particular occasions, and where it
is impossible for us to overcome, to submit patiently is one of the most
reasonable maxims in life.