To practice five things under all circumstances constitutes perfect virtue; these five are gravity, generosity of soul, sincerity, earnestness, and kindness.

See a person's means ... Observe his motives. Examine that in which he rests. How can a person conceal his character?

I never really said all those things I said

The silent treasuring up of knowledge; learning without satiety; and instructing others without being wearied: which one of these things belongs to me?

Guide them by edicts, keep them in line with punishments, and the common people will stay out of trouble but will have no sense of shame. Guide them by virtue, keep them in line with the rites, and they will, besides having a sense of shame, reform themselves.

The superior man sets his person at rest before he moves; he composes his mind before he speaks.

He is the truly courageous man who never desponds.