Page "belles_lettres" Paragraph 505

The stars constitute an order of existence different from what we encounter on earth.

This is clear when one distinguishes the types of motion appropriate to both regions.

A projectile shot up from earth returns rectlinearly to its ' natural ' place of rest.

But the natural condition for the heavenly bodies is neither rest, nor rectilinear motion.

Being less encumbered by material embodiments they partake more of what is divine.

Their motion will be eternal and perfect.