Interesting thoughts, sir. Let me add something, if i may, on your first quote:
Is it true that succeeding in a secular career that offers power and prestige leads to lasting happiness? No. Remember that the craving to control others and the longing to be admired are the desires that enticed Satan, but he is angry, not happy.
along with your points, let me question even the premise in its origin.. what the hell is this idea about secular careers that leads to power and prestige? How many jobs or careers really lead to that or even appear to? Do they imagine everyone wants to be a rock star or a politician? Most peoples careers leads to a paycheck and some measure of personal satisfaction. I enjoy my job very much, aside from paying bills. I never had illusions of power, for god sake. The whole premise that anything worldly is evil and that pursuit of a career must be for some ill conceived attempt at power and fame is laughable