Chi Wen Tzu always thought three times before taking action. Twice would have been quite enough.

A man exercising no forethought will soon experience present sorrow.

Never tire to study. And to teach to others

The higher type of man clings to virtue, the lower type of man clings to material comfort. The higher type of man cherishes justice, the lower type of man cherishes the hope of favors to be received.

In a hamlet of ten households, there are bound to be those who are my equal in doing their best for others and in being trustworthy in what they say, but they are unlikely to be as eager to learn as I am.

The Master said, “The gentleman understands what is right, whereas the petty man understands profit.” (Analects 4.16)

Only one who bursts with enthusiasm do I instruct; Only one who bubbles with excitement do I enlighten. If I hold up one corner and you do not come back to me with the other three, I do not continue the lesson.