William Shakespeare
what is the fortune in life
"What is the fortune in life, thou ponderous question, that doth provoke the weary mind into deep contemplation? Methinks, dear reader, that fortune lies not in the gilded coffers of kings, nor in the lavish halls of opulence. Nay, for riches doth often breed envy and discontent, and turn the hearts of men away from what truly matters. Forsooth, fortune dost lie in the intangibles, the ephemeral moments that weave the tapestry of our existence. 'Tis in the gentle touch of a lover’s hand, in the warmth of a mother’s embrace, in the laughter of children that fortune finds its abode. 'Tis in the whispered words of a trusted friend, in the quiet solitude of a moonlit night, in the symphony of rustling leaves overhead. But alas, in this mortal coil, fortune is a fickle mistress, prone to both benevolence and malevolence. For oftentimes, when fortune smiles upon one, she doth cast her dark shadows upon another. She shifts, like the ever-changing tides, casting adrift the dreams and ambitions of those who dare ride upon her tempestuous waves. Yet, in the face of adversity, there lies a hidden fortune, a potential for growth and self-discovery. 'Tis through the trials and tribulations of life that we come to know our own strength, our resilience. Fortune, it dost appear, is not only found in the shimmering light of success, but also in the crucible of failure and despair. Indeed, life’s fortunes are but fleeting, like the passing winds that whisper through the boughs of trees. What once was, may soon fade away, leaving but a wistful memory in its wake. Therefore, let us not fixate upon fleeting fortunes, but rather seek solace in the beauty of the passage of time, in the simple joys that surround us. For in the end, when we depart this mortal realm and bid adieu to the mortal coil, fortune shall matter not. It is the legacy we leave behind, the imprint we make upon the world, that shall endure. Thus, let us strive to cultivate kindness, compassion, and wisdom. Let us revel in the pursuit of knowledge, for in these endeavors lies the true fortune of life."