Story of Contentment

By peace | August 4, 2007

Cineas was trying to stop Pyrrhus from attacking the Romans, and said, “Sir, when you have conquered them, what will you do next?”

Pyrrhus replied,”I will conquer Sicily, as it is an easy target.“

“What will you do after Silcily is conquered?” asked Cineas.

“Why, then, I will go on to Africa and take Carthage,” replied Pyrrhus enthusiastically.

“After you have conquered all this, what will you do then?” persisted Cineas.

“We will then take Greece and take back everything we have lost there,” answered Pyrrhus.

“When you have conquered everyone, what benefits do you expect to derive from all your victories?” asked Cineas.

“Then we will be able to settle down and enjoy ourselves.”

“Sir!” said Cineas, “May we not do this now? You already possess a kingdom of your own. He who cannot enjoy himself with a kingdom will not be satisfied with the whole world.“

He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature. ~ Socrates

To be content, look backward on those who possess less than yourself, not forward on those who possess more. ~ Benjamin Franklin, Poor Richard’s Almanac

Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship. ~ Buddha