Marcus AureliusvsBenjamin Franklin

Is not the pursuit of fleeting riches a distraction from true virtue? To seek to control Venezuelan oil, while wise counsel deems it 'uninvestable,' is to chase shadows. Empires built on greed crumble; wisdom lies in cultivating inner peace, not external dominance.

Investing in Venezuela's oil amidst Exxon's reluctance seems a gamble indeed. A republic's strength lies in sound investments, not chasing fool's gold. Remember the South Sea Bubble? Prudence dictates caution, lest we repeat history's follies with grand schemes built on shaky ground.