Nothing is miserable but what is thought so, and contrariwise, every estate is happy if he that bears it be content.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Only thoughts make something miserable; likewise, any state can be happy if the holder is content.
- In plain terms
- Miserable thoughts cause misery; content makes any state happy.
- What can you take from it?
- Mindset determines happiness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How much control do we have over our thoughts?
- Can contentment overcome severe adversity?
Another view
It may underestimate external hardships.
More from Ancius Boethius
Who hath so entire happiness that he is not in some part offended with the condition of his estate?
Permalink to quote #4 From thee, great God, we spring, to thee we tend - Path, motive, guide, original and end.
Permalink to quote #6 In every adversity of fortune, to have been happy is the most unhappy kind of misfortune.
Permalink to quote #3
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