Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
I do not understand what the man who is happy wants in order to be happier.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the complexity of happiness and the elusive pursuit of wanting more despite already being happy.
Cicero's quote suggests a philosophical examination of happiness, implying that once a person has reached a state of happiness, it becomes uncertain what additional desires or improvements would lead to greater happiness. This can provoke introspection about the nature of contentment and how many people often chase unattainable ideals rather than appreciating their current state of joy.
Themes
HappinessContentmentDesireFulfillment
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech on appreciating what you have.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
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No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
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Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
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