So are you ready to convince people that none of these things are actually bad? That a man can be poor, have no job title, and get no respect — and still be happy? Or do you want to show off to them as if you're rich and powerful? The second option is for people who are boastful, foolish, and worthless. And think about what you'd have to do to keep up that fake act.
Whether then are you prepared to convince the many, that not one of these things is an evil, but that it is possible for a man who is poor and has no office ([Greek: anarchonti)] and enjoys no honor to be happy; or to show yourself to them as rich and in power? For the second of these things belong to a man who is boastful, silly, and good for nothing. And consider by what means the pretence must be supported.