April 20th, 2021
Here's a way to think about what the masses regard as being ‘good’ things. If you would first start by setting your mind upon things that are unquestionably good—wisdom, self-control, justice, courage — with this preconception you'll no longer be able to listen to the popular refrain that there are too many good things to experience in a lifetime.
It is interesting to reflect on the items we covet and the results of acquiring them. Do they bring happiness or pleasure? Do they satisfy us, or do we still covet “more”?
The dopamine hit fades quickly after we start using our new iPhone or driving our new (or new-ish) car. If you can avoid buyer’s remorse, consider yourself lucky. But what about wisdom, courage, justice, and self-control? Can you ever have too much of these, or regret having more of them?
Electronics become obsolete. Cars and homes become too expensive to maintain at a certain point. Reading a book, taking a new course on something interesting, or investing in a cause—these have lasting effects. Material things seldom provide us with lasting happiness. Virtues such as wisdom, self-control, justice, and courage—these qualities can and do provide long-term happiness.