It is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote presents a metaphorical perspective on the art of living. It suggests that the ideal approach to life is to navigate it with a sense of balance, neither excessively desiring more nor indulging in excess. It encourages moderation and mindfulness in our experiences, emphasizing the importance of avoiding extremes.
To rise from life "neither thirsty" implies not constantly seeking more or being driven by insatiable desires. It encourages us to appreciate and be content with what we have, avoiding the perpetual pursuit of material possessions or superficial pleasures that can lead to dissatisfaction or a never-ending cycle of craving.
To rise from life "neither drunken" signifies the avoidance of excessive indulgence or losing control. It urges us to exercise self-discipline and temperance, avoiding addictive behaviors or becoming consumed by vices that impair our judgment, health, and well-being. It reminds us to maintain clarity of mind and make conscious choices rather than being carried away by impulsive actions or reckless abandon.
The quote invites us to reflect on the balance between our desires and our self-control. It encourages us to find contentment in the present moment, appreciate life's blessings, and cultivate a sense of gratitude. By rising from life with moderation and mindfulness, we can foster inner peace, maintain our integrity, and navigate life's challenges with wisdom and poise.
Who said the quote?
The quote "It is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken." was said by Aristotle (Bio / Quotes). Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest thinkers in history.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote “It is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken” reflects the idea of leaving a situation—be it a feast or life in general—when it is still satisfying and under control. This concept is embodied in the life of Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher.
Marcus Aurelius ruled during a time of considerable instability and conflict, including wars on the empire’s borders and internal strife. Despite these challenges, he was known for his Stoic philosophy, which emphasized moderation, self-control, and maintaining a balanced life. One of his key principles was to remain composed and clear-headed, even in the face of adversity.
In his personal life, Aurelius practiced these principles by managing his duties and responsibilities with a sense of detachment and self-discipline. He did not let the power and luxury of his position overwhelm him. Instead, he sought to remain measured and avoid becoming intoxicated by the wealth or influence that came with his status.
A notable example of this philosophy in practice can be seen in his approach to the end of his life. Marcus Aurelius chose to relinquish his power in a way that was mindful and dignified. When he passed away in 180 AD, he did so knowing he had managed his reign with integrity and had lived a life in line with his principles. He left behind a legacy that showed the importance of maintaining balance and clarity, even when in a position of great authority.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
Applying the quote “It is best to rise from life as from a banquet, neither thirsty nor drunken” in everyday life involves finding a balance between enjoying life’s pleasures and maintaining self-control and moderation.
Imagine a person who has just achieved a significant career milestone, such as receiving a major promotion or completing a challenging project. The excitement and sense of accomplishment are undeniable, but the key to applying this quote is in how they handle the aftermath.
Instead of allowing this success to lead to overindulgence or complacency—such as becoming overly confident, taking excessive risks, or neglecting other important aspects of their life—one should strive to manage their success with moderation. This means celebrating achievements appropriately, maintaining a clear perspective, and staying grounded in one’s values and goals.
For instance, after a big win at work, an individual might enjoy a celebratory dinner with friends but then return to their routine with a renewed focus on their long-term objectives. They should use this success as a stepping stone rather than an endpoint, ensuring that they continue to grow and evolve without becoming overly attached to the triumph or letting it cloud their judgment.
This approach helps to ensure that one's successes and pleasures are experienced fully but in a way that does not lead to negative consequences or a loss of balance in other areas of life. In essence, it’s about enjoying life’s rewards while remaining mindful of the bigger picture and maintaining control over one’s actions and decisions.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
