"Man is only miserable so far as he thinks himself so"

This quote by Jacopo Sannazaro recommends that our level of joy is determined by our own thoughts and beliefs. It suggests that our understanding of our own lives is what determines our level of suffering. It suggests that if we believe positively and focus on the great in our lives, we can be content and delighted. On the other hand, if we concentrate on the unfavorable elements of our lives, we will be dissatisfied and miserable. This quote motivates us to take control of our own thoughts and sensations, and to be mindful of how we perceive our lives. It recommends that we can select to be delighted, and that our level of anguish is not predetermined by our situations. Ultimately, this quote encourages us to take obligation for our own joy and to be conscious of our thoughts and beliefs.