Never seek illicit wealth.

What is God-given is called nature; to follow nature is called Tao (the Way); to cultivate the way is called culture. Before joy, anger, sadness and happiness are expressed, they are called the inner self; when they are expressed to the proper degree, they are called harmony. The inner self is the correct foundation of the world, and the harmony is the illustrious Way. When a man has achieved the inner self and harmony, the heaven and earth are orderly and the myriad of things are nourished and grow thereby.

Unify your attention. Do not listen with your ears, but with your mind. Do not listen with your mind but with your essence.

The man of noble mind seeks to achieve the good in others and not their evil. The little-minded man is the reverse of this.

It is not the failure of others to appreciate your abilities that should trouble you, but rather your failure to appreciate theirs.

Sincerity and truth are the basis of every virtue.

To be fond of learning is near to wisdom; to practice with vigor is near to benevolence; and to be conscious of shame is near to fortitude.