I do not want a friend who smiles when I smile, who weeps when I weep; for my shadow in the pool can do better than that.

It is goodness that gives to a neighborhood its beauty. One who is free to choose, yet does not prefer to dwell among the good - how can he be accorded the name of wise?

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

Be strict with yourself but least reproachful of others and complaint is kept afar.

Wisdom, humanity & courage, these three are universal virtues. The way by which they are practiced are one.

When frying small fish, disturb them little.

A knight whose heart is set upon the Way, but who is ashamed of wearing shabby clothes and eating coarse food, is not worth calling into counsel.