At 15 I set my heart on learning; At 30 I firmly took my stand; At 40 I had no delusions; At 50 I knew the Mandate of Heaven; At 60 my ear was attuned; At 70 I followed my heart's desire without overstepping the boundaries of right.

Look for an occupation that you like, and you will not need to labor for a single day in your life.

To be fond of learning is near to wisdom.

Ask yourself constantly, "What is the right thing to do?" Behave toward everyone as if receiving a great guest.

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

Ah, music, sacred tongue of God! I hear thee calling and I come.

The young should be dutiful at home, modest abroad, careful and true, overflowing in kindness for all, but in brotherhood with love. And if they have strength to spare they should spend it on the arts.