From the Islamic emir Abdalrahman who ruled much of modern day Spain in the 8th Century AD:
"I have reigned above fifty years in victory or peace; beloved by my subjects, dreaded by my enemies, and respected by my allies. Riches and honours, power and pleasure, have waited on my call, nor does any earthly blessing appear to have been wanting to my felicity. In this situation, I have diligently numbered the days of pure and genuine happiness which have fallen to my lot: they amounted to FOURTEEN: -- O man! place not thy confidence in this present world."
"I have reigned above fifty years in victory or peace; beloved by my subjects, dreaded by my enemies, and respected by my allies. Riches and honours, power and pleasure, have waited on my call, nor does any earthly blessing appear to have been wanting to my felicity. In this situation, I have diligently numbered the days of pure and genuine happiness which have fallen to my lot: they amounted to FOURTEEN: -- O man! place not thy confidence in this present world."
The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
by Edward Gibbon
Volume III, Chapter LII, page 346
Honest words from a man who lived life to the fullest in both luxury and action.
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