Straight-forwardness, without the rules of propriety, becomes rudeness.

Is there any one maxim which ought to be acted upon throughout one's whole life? Surely the maxim of loving kindness is such: Do not unto others what you would not they should do unto you.

A reasonable man adjusts himself to the world. An unreasonable man expects the world to adjust itself to him. Therefore all progress is made by unreasonable people.

For benefits return benefits; for injuries return justice without any admixture of revenge.

To study and at times practice what one has learned, is this not a pleasure?

Do not wish for quick results, nor look for small advantages. If you seek quick results, you will not reach the ultimate goal. If you are led astray by small advantages, you will never accomplish great things.

He who exercises government by means of his virtue may be compared to the north polar star, which keeps its place and all the stars turn towards it.