Choose a topic from Part 2B:
1. Prodigality is an evil by excess at the points wherecovetousness sins by defect, and vice versa. Thus, in interiordesire for riches, covetousness is excessive, prodigality isdefective. But in using riches, covetousness is defective, andprodigality is excessive. For prodigality is the careless andfoolish squandering of riches.
2. Prodigality is manifestly an evil, for it conflictswith right reason. Aristotle (Ethic. iv 1) says ofthe prodigal man that his giving is not good, nor for a goodpurpose, nor is it regulated by reason.
3. But prodigality, in itself, is not so grievous a fault ascovetousness, because: (a) it is less unreasonable; (b) it doessome good, whereas covetousness does none; (c) it is an evil morereadily cured than covetousness is.
"What good does it do to speak learnedly about the Trinity if, lacking humility, you displease the Trinity? Indeed it is not learning that makes a man holy and just, but a virtuous life makes him pleasing to God. "
Thomas á Kempis
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"God commands not impossibilities, but by commanding he suggests to you to do what you can, to ask for what is beyond your strength; and he helps you, that you may be able."
St Augustine
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"The more you know and the better you understand, the more severely will you be judged, unless your life is also the more holy. Do not be proud, therefore, because of your learning or skill. Rather, fear because of the talent given you."
Thomas á Kempis
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