[Read more…] about The Placeman and The HusbandmanA Placeman met a Peasant and asked why the Peasant did not flatter to advance. The Peasant asked why not work and get out of the slavery of the mind.
Prize only honors which man can neither give nor take away.
The Congregation of Pious Animals
[Read more…] about The Congregation of Pious AnimalsThe animals met to offer acknowledgments to Jupiter for the endowments. Jupiter said it wasn’t needed to recite what he already knew and had given them.
The pious should avoid vanity and self-opinion.
The Judicious Elephant
[Read more…] about The Judicious ElephantA Wolf and Leopard gave Horse their prey to hold. A Fox talked the Horse out of it. An Elephant decided that all three had to claim the prize. Not likely.
In doubtful and intricate cases, discrimination and solidity of judgment are required.
The Willow and The Lake
[Read more…] about The Willow and The LakeA Willow asked the Lake why it, on one day be placid and reflect all things but on another day be roiled and an instrument of mischief. No answer.
Do as few things as possible that you might have to repent.
The Complainer
[Read more…] about The ComplainerAn Complainer blamed all ills on Adam. The Lord of the Manor gave him good life so long as he avoided one dish. He didn’t, and could no longer blame Adam.
It’s easy to blame others; hard to take blame.
Epictetus In The Fur Shop
[Read more…] about Epictetus In The Fur ShopEpictetus picked a fur coat with rare lynx on one side and lamb on the other. He wore the coat with the lamb showing. That way he could appear common.
For advantage hide things you don’t want known.