Chapter XLIII.
On temperance and its chief parts, especially
tranquillity of mind and moderation, care for what is virtuous, and
reflection on what is seemly.
219.
As
we have
spoken of three of the virtues, there remains but the fourth for us to
speak of.
313
This is
called temperance and
moderation; wherein, before all else,
tranquillity of mind, the attainment of gentleness, the grace of
moderation, regard for what is virtuous, and reflection on what is
seemly are sought and looked for.
220. We must keep to a certain order in life, so
that a foundation may be laid with our first feelings of modesty, for
that is the friend and ally of calmness of mind. Avoiding
over-confidence, averse to all excess, it loves sobriety, guards what
is honourable, and seeks only what is seemly.
221. Let choice of intercourse come next.
Let us link ourselves with older men of approved goodness. For as
the companionship of people of our own age is the pleasanter, so that
of our elders is the safer. By their guidance and the conduct of
their lives they give colour to the character of younger men, and tinge
them as it were with the deep purple of probity. For if they who
are ignorant of a locality are very glad to take a journey in the
company of skilled guides, how much more ought young men to enter on
the path of life, which is new to them, in the company of old men; so
that they may not go wrong, and turn aside from the true path of
virtue. For nothing is better than to have the same men both to
direct us in life, and also to be witnesses of how we live.
222. One must also in every action consider what
is suitable for different persons, times, and ages, and what will also
be in accordance with the abilities of individuals. For often
what befits one does not befit another; one thing suits a youth,
another an old man; one thing does in danger, another in good
fortune.
223. David danced before the ark of the
Lord.
314
Samuel did not dance; yet David was
not blamed, while the other was praised. David changed his
countenance before the king, whose name was Achish.
315
If he had done this without any fear
of being recognized, he would certainly not have escaped the charge of
levity. Saul also, surrounded by the company of prophets, himself
prophesied. Yet of him alone, as though he were unworthy, was it
said: “Is Saul also among the prophets?”
316
313
Cic.
de
Off.
I. 27.
314
2 Sam. [2
Kings] vi. 14
.
315
1 Sam. xxi. 13
.
316
1 Sam. xix. 24
.