On Peace of Mind, Section 4 — In Plain English

Seneca — The Senator

Are you banned from being a judge? Can't you speak to voters or run for office? Then look beyond Rome. See how much territory stretches out before you. See how many nations there are. It's impossible for so many doors to be shut that none remain open to your ambition. But ask yourself — is this whole problem really your own fault? You refuse to serve the state unless you can be consul or chief magistrate. What would we say if you refused to join the army unless you could be a general or officer?

Seneca — The Senator Original

Is the bench of judges closed to you, are you forbidden to address the people from the hustings, or to be a candidate at elections? then turn your eyes away from Rome, and see what a wide extent of territory, what a number of nations present themselves before you. Thus, it is never possible for so many outlets to be closed against your ambition that more will not remain open to it: but see whether the whole prohibition does not arise from your own fault. You do not choose to direct the affairs of the state except as consul or prytanis or meddix or sufes: what should we say if you refused to serve in the army save as general or military tribune?