If there were one word that could act as a standard of conduct for one's entire life, perhaps it would be 'thoughtfulness.

The superior man is easy to serve, but difficult to please ... The inferior man is difficult to serve, but easy to please.

While you are not able to serve men, how can you serve spirits of the dead...While you do not know life, how can you know about death

Keep it simple and focus on what matters. Don't let yourself be overwhelmed.

Does Heaven ever speak? The four seasons come and go, and all creatures thrive and grow. Does Heaven ever speak!

The superior man does not mind being in office; all he minds about is whether he has qualities that entitle him to office. He does not mind failing to get recognition; he is too busy doing the things that entitle him to recognition.

Even if I could, I would not exahnge their virtues for my own. And that is why they are intent on learning from me.