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?

What can a man do with music who is not benevolent?

There are three sorts of pleasures which are advantageous, and three which are injurious. Finding pleasure in the discriminating study of ceremonies and music, finding pleasure in discussing the good points in the conduct of others, and finding pleasure in having many wise friends, these are advantageous. But finding pleasure in profligate enjoyments, finding pleasure in idle gadding about, and finding pleasure in feasting, these are injurious.

A man exercising no forethought will soon experience present sorrow.

Let our reason, and not our senses, be the rule of our conduct; for reason will teach us to think wisely, to speak prudently, and to behave worthily.

Benevolence is the characteristic element of humanity.

Exemplary persons are steadfast in the face of adversity, while petty persons are engulfed by it.