To be able under all circumstances to practice five things constitutes perfect virtue; these five things are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.

I'm sorry, but I don't want to be an emperor. That's not my business. I don't want to rule or conquer anyone.

Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it.

What the superior man seeks is in himself; what the small man seeks is in others.

They must often change who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.

In a country well governed, poverty is something to be ashamed of. In a country badly governed, wealth is something to be ashamed of.

When anger rises, think of the consequences.

It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop.

When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don't adjust the goals; adjust the action steps.

Faced with what is right, to leave it undone shows a lack of courage.

Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.

To see what is right, and not to do it, is want of courage or of principle.

Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.

Men's natures are alike, it is their habits that carry them far apart.

Do not impose on others what you yourself do not desire.

Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation, there is sure to be failure.

Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.

Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.

Respect yourself and others will respect you.