The boatmen appeared to lead ...

The boatmen appeared to lead an easy and contented life, and we thought that we should prefer their employment ourselves to many professions which are much more sought after. They suggested how few circumstances are necessary to the well-being and serenity of man, how indifferent all employments are, and that any may seem noble and poetic to the eyes of men, if pursued with sufficient buoyancy and freedom.
The boatmen appeared to lead an easy and contented life, and we thought that we should prefer their employment ourselves to many professions which are much more sought after. They suggested how few circumstances are necessary to the well-being and serenity of man, how indifferent all employments are, and that any may seem noble and poetic to the eyes of men, if pursued with sufficient buoyancy and freedom.
 Henry David Thoreau

Quotes from the same author

Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after.
 See image
 Henry David Thoreau
If one advances confidently in the direction of his dream, and endeavors to live the life which he had imagines, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.
 See image
 Henry David Thoreau
Ignorance and bungling with love are better than wisdom and skill without.
 See image
 Henry David Thoreau
The most I can do for my friend is simply be his friend.
 See image
 Henry David Thoreau
A man cannot be said to succeed in this life who does not satisfy one friend.
 See image
 Henry David Thoreau