…would like to say, that having attained some degree of contentment in this earthly existence, does not engender any sense of smug superiority…

I actually do not think genuine contentment is possible when smugness or arrogance is present. To be smug is simply to announce that you aren’t sure of a damn thing.

I am at peace within myself…. and in that understanding is the true blessing of divine grace.

And that surety and peace has no price tag, can’t be learned from a book, and does not take deep root in shallow hearts. You are blessed to have achieved even a modicum of it.

I would like to say, that having attained some degree of contentment in this earthly existence, does not engender any sense of smug superiority, for I do indeed see, when viewing the foolish paths others have trodden, “there, but for the grace of God go I”. I should add, that having followed my own path has not given me any sense of absolution or entitlement, I am after all, a man of many failings and few accomplishments, and life for me is still as much of a struggle as it is for my neighbors; the difference is simply that I am at peace within myself, after all, just what is there to be smug about: and in that understanding is the true blessing of divine grace. Indeed, any time I find myself inclined to wallow in the sweet fragrance of my own virtue, I am reminded of many of those failings …very sobering it is too

Rouseau, never my favorite philosopher, did however come up with one or two sage pieces of advice, which we could all do well to live by, this one is particularly pertainent and strikes a sublime truth …

“Do not walk in the opinions of others, for therein lies the path to the destruction of your most noble soul”

Now of course, this must be understood not as a license for self gratification, debauchery and hedonism, but as a caution against the desire to gain acceptance by pleasing others. “Be true to thine own self”, in all things, except where sound reason and experience can lead you to see a better path.