Unhappiness.—The distinction associated with unhappiness (as if it were a sign of stupidity, unambitiousness, or commonplaceness to feel happy) is so great that when any one says to us, "How happy you are!" we usually protest.
535.
Imagination in Anguish.—When one is afraid of anything, one's imagination plays the part of that evil spirit which springs on one's back just when one has the heaviest load to bear.
536.
The Value of Insipid Opponents.—We sometimes remain faithful to a cause merely because its opponents never cease to be insipid.
537.
The Value of a Profession.—A profession makes us thoughtless; that is its greatest blessing. For it is a bulwark behind which we are permitted to withdraw when commonplace doubts and cares assail us.
538.
Talent.—Many a man's talent appears less than it is, because he has always set himself too heavy tasks.
539.