The Virtue of Contentment
by Contentment comes not from great wealth but from few wants.
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The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates (469-399 BC) believed that the best way for people to live was to focus on self-development rather than the pursuit of material wealth. According to this philosopher, if a person is truly wise he will not be obsessed with material possessions. Socrates lived by this virtue, he lived an extremely simple life – he even refused to wear shoes.
According to historians, Socrates loved to visit the market place, not to buy things but only to stare at the merchandise on display. According to the philosopher, he enjoys visiting the market place because he can see many material things that he is perfectly happy without.
Let us ask ourselves, “What am I truly happy without?” The answers to this question will reveal much about us, our relationship with other human beings, our level of contentment, and our overall outlook in life. Great wealth will not give us contentment. For we brought nothing in this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
“We tend to forget that happiness doesn’t come as a result of getting something we don’t have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” – Frederick Keonig
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Post Commentillwriter
On April 19, 2009 at 9:18 am
wow that is beautiful really made me think thank you for sharing this.
Darla Cooke
On April 19, 2009 at 10:52 am
Very well written.
Karen Gross
On April 19, 2009 at 11:05 am
Very true! If you think that material possessions will make you happy, you will never have enough.
Alina Beck
On April 19, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Wise words, Joshua.
clay hurtubise
On April 19, 2009 at 3:10 pm
I’m simple, I just want it all!
Nice reminder.
Clay
Judy Sheldon
On April 19, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Well put – material gains do not bring contentment.
Luffy12
On April 20, 2009 at 4:24 am
promil adult
The Quail
On April 20, 2009 at 7:41 am
Very well written.
Yovita Siswati
On April 20, 2009 at 8:14 am
wise message!
Bo Russo
On April 21, 2009 at 4:47 am
Wisdom speaks
MMV Abad
On April 22, 2009 at 8:42 am
Contentment… Depends on the situation but just like Clay, I want it all! Joke. Nice post. Very wise and well written
yian
On April 22, 2009 at 11:57 pm
good article Josh, good job! .
Anne McNew
On April 26, 2009 at 7:34 am
that was very beautiful
CutestPrincess
On May 9, 2009 at 11:54 am
Very well written piece..you have honestly made an effort…