To be fond of learning is to draw close to wisdom. To practice with vigor is to draw close to benevolence. To know the sense of shame is to draw close to courage. He who knows these three things knows how to cultivate his own character. Knowing how to cultivate his own character, he knows how to govern other men. Knowing how to govern other men, he knows how to govern the world, its states, and its families.

There is nothing impossible in all the world except that the heart of man is wanting in resolution.

If a man is not good, what has he to do with the rules of propriety? If he is not good, what has he to do with music?

The man who in view of gain thinks of righteousness; who in the view of danger is prepared to give up his life; and who does not forget an old agreement however far back it extends - such a man may be reckoned a complete man.

The Master said, "A true teacher is one who, keeping the past alive, is also able to understand the present."

Love makes a spot beautiful: who chooses not to dwell in love, has he got wisdom?

The gentleman holds justice to be of highest importance. If a gentleman has courage but neglects justice, he becomes insurgent. If an inferior man has courage but neglects justice, he becomes a thief.