In the Book of Poetry there are three hundred poems, but the meaning of all of them may be put in a single sentence: Have no debasing thoughts.

Learn, as if never overtaking your object, and yet as if apprehensive of losing it.

Wealth and rank are what men desire, but unless they be obtained in the right way they may not be possessed. Poverty and obscurity are what men detest; but unless prosperity be brought about in the right way, they are not to be abandoned.

The superior man, even when he is not moving, has a feeling of reverence, and while he speaks not, he has the feeling of truthfulness.

He who is really good can never be unhappy. He who is really wise can never be perplexed. He who is really brave is never afraid.

When you breathe, you inspire, and when you do not breathe, you expire.

Virtue is not left to stand alone. He who practices it will have neighbors.