Since all things, as Juno says, are fixed by the eternal and unalterable
decree of fate, how absurd it is to hear people complaining and
tormenting themselves for that which it is impossible ever to obtain!
They who are ambitious of having more good qualities, since that is
impracticable, should spare for no pains to cultivate and recommend
those they have; which a sourness and peevishness of temper, instead of
improving, will certainly lessen and impair, whether they are of the
mind or body. If we had all the desirable properties in the world, we
could be no more than easy and contented with them; and if a man, by a
right way of thinking, can reconcile himself to his own condition,
whatever it be, he will fall little short of the most complete state
that mortals ever enjoyed.