True luxury is having an admirable soul and experiencing a state of pleasure. For example, a person may eat, drink, and engage in revelry, yet if they suffer from cares and loss of spirits, can they truly be considered to be in a state of delight?So, true luxury is found in having a life without sorrows. Let us explore who can attain such a life—whether the rich or those who are not rich. It is not exclusive to either group, but rather to those who order their souls in a way that minimizes grounds for sorrows. Now, where can we find such a life? This pleasure, this true luxury, does not depend on meats, wine, sauces, silk robes, or a sumptuous table. If I can demonstrate that such a life is achievable without relying on these external factors, then welcome this pleasure and this way of life.

First, acknowledge that true luxury is to have no sorrows causing annoyance. Don’t ask for indulgences but recognize that a life without sorrow is the ultimate pleasure. Often, our sorrows arise from miscalculations. Who, then, will have more sorrows? The one who cares for none of these things or the one who cares for them? The one who fears changes or the one who does not fear? The one in dread of jealousy, envy, false accusations, plottings, and destruction or the one who stands aloof from these fears? The one who wants many things or the one who wants nothing? The one enslaved to numerous masters or the one enslaved to none? The one with many needs or the one who is free? The one fearing one lord or the one fearing innumerable despots? Clearly, the greater pleasure lies in the latter. 

—St. John Chrysostom