Nepos, an Italian historian once said," Choose a life of action, not one of ostentation."
Its meaning is accessible and easy-to-understand. What Nepos wants to show is that we'd better do more rather than indulge in empty talk and flaunt.
I believe that most of us have experienced the same period when we are immersed in the happiness and satisfaction which come from our show-off behavior. On one occasion, I got full mark in a quiz. You know, it's a big deal for a young girl. You can image how excited and chuffed I was.
I showed off my beautiful grade as soon as I get home. Seeing my behavior, my mom showed her dissatisfaction with me. I don't care at that time and even got a little angry. However, my ostentation evaporated without a trace when I got my terrible grade in the next test. My mom walked to me and told me that it's my self-importance and ostentation that defeat myself.
Yeah, I'll choose a life of action rather than one of ostentation.