Paradoxically, one of the reasons for Rome’s demise was that it kept winning wars. Victories expanded the empire’s territory, and the risks increased proportionally. Men, primarily middle-class men, volunteered as soldiers; the larger the territory, the longer the wars lasted, and the longer it took for them to return home. The women who remained at home were forced to borrow labor and became indebted to the nobility. Eventually, the women were sold into slavery, and by the time the men returned, their families had disintegrated. People don’t betray because they’re evil, but because it increases their risk. If the territory you’re in grows, you might reconsider your loyalties to the organization. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Affection lacking temperance can turn into violence at any time. No matter how much you love, the other person may not ideally match your expectations, so the time comes when the beloved one wants to avoid the affection you’re pouring out or keep away for a while. A relationship that lacks experience in building trust through moderation has no power to continue when dissatisfaction and regret arise. A healthy relationship involves trusting that temperance is not rejection. Relationships, after all, are energy and power. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”