Pity, says the Theban bard, <br />From my wishes I discard; <br />Envy, let me rather be, <br />Rather far, a theme for thee. <br />Pity to distress is shown. <br />Envy to the great alone-- <br />So the Theban -- But to shine <br />Less conspicuous be mine! <br />I prefer the golden mean, <br />Pomp and penury between; <br />For alarm and peril wait <br />Ever on the loftiest state <br />And the lowest to the end <br />Obloquy and scorn attend.<br /><br />William Cowper<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/on-envy-from-the-greek/
