On the other hand, self-control, however difficult at first, becomes step
by step easier and more delightful. We possess mysteriously a sort of dual
nature, and there are few truer triumphs, or more delightful sensations,
than to obtain thorough command of oneself.

How much pleasanter it is to ride a spirited horse, even perhaps though
requiring some strength and skill, than to creep along upon a jaded hack.
In the one case you feel under you the free, responsive spring of a living
and willing force; in the other you have to spur a dull and lifeless
slave.

To rule oneself is in reality the greatest triumph. "He who is his own
monarch," says Sir T. Browne, "contentedly sways the sceptre of himself,
not envying the glory to crowned heads and Elohim of the earth;" for those
are really highest who are nearest to heaven, and those are lowest who are
farthest from it.

True greatness has little, if anything, to do with rank or power.
"Eurystheus being what he was," says Epictetus, "was not really king of
Argos nor of Mycenae, for he could not even rule himself; while Hercules
purged lawlessness and introduced justice, though he was both naked and
alone."

We are told that Cineas the philosopher once asked Pyrrhus what he would
do when he had conquered Italy. "I will conquer Sicily." "And after
Sicily?" "Then Africa." "And after you have conquered the world?" "I will
take my ease and be merry." "Then," asked Cineas, "why can you not take
your ease and be merry now?"