A ruthless man extends his ruthlessness from those he does not love to those he loves.

Woman is the masterpiece.

The superior man does what is proper to the station in which he is; he does not desire to go beyond this. In a position of wealth and honor, he does what is proper to a position of wealth and honor. In a poor and low position, he does what is proper to a poor and low position.

Just as lavishness leads easily to presumption, so does frugality to meanness. But meanness is a far less serious fault than presumption.

When you see a good man, think of emulating him; when you see a bad man, examine your own heart.

A gentleman considers what is right; the vulgar consider what will pay.

If proper in their own conduct, what difficulty would they have in governing? But if not able to be proper in their own conduct, how can they demand such conduct from others?