 The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has. |
| The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue. |
| I hear, I know. I see, I remember. I do, I understand. |
| If we don't know life, how can we know death? |
| The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools. |
| There are three methods to gaining wisdom. The first is reflection, which is the highest. The second is limitation, which is the easiest. The third is experience, which is the bitterest. |
| The more man meditates upon good thoughts, the better will be his world and the world at large. |
| To be wronged is nothing unless you continue to remember it. |
| Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors. |
| They must often change, who would be constant in happiness or wisdom. |
| To know what is right and not to do it is the worst cowardice. |
| Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods. |
| It is more shameful to distrust our friends than to be deceived by them. |
| Go before the people with your example, and be laborious in their affairs. |
| He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good. |
| Death and life have their determined appointments; riches and honors depend upon heaven. |
| Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. |
| Better a diamond with a flaw than a pebble without. |
| What you do not want done to yourself, do not do to others. |
