And the reason is this, that since each thing naturally desires its perfection, without which it cannot be at peace, to have that is to be blessed.

For although it might possess all other things, yet, being without that, there would remain in it desire, which cannot consist with perfect happiness, since perfect happiness is a perfect thing, and desire is a defective thing.

For one desires not that which he has, but that which he has not, and here is a manifest defect.

And in this form solely can human perfection be acquired, as the perfection of Reason, on which, as on its principal part, our essential being all depends.

All our other actions, as to feel or hear, to take food, and the rest, are through this one alone; and this is for itself, and not for others.