Study the past if you would define the future. I am not one who was born in the possession of knowledge; I am one who is fond of antiquity, and earnest in seeking it there. Learning without thought is labor lost; thought without learning is perilous.

If doing what ought to be done be made the first business and success a secondary consideration--is not this the way to exalt virtue?

The superior man is firm in the right way and not merely firm.

Writing cannot express all words, words cannot encompass all ideas.

Don't worry if people don't recognize your merits; worry that you may not recognize theirs.

Study without reflection is a waste of time; reflection without study is dangerous.

He who keeps danger in mind, is he who will rest safe in his seat; he who keeps ruin in mind, is he who will preserve his interests secure.