In my experience, men who respond to good fortune with modesty and kindness are harder to find than those who face adversity with courage.

I am Cyrus, king of the world.

May all the gods whom I settled in their sacred centers ask daily of Bêl and Nâbu that my days be long and may they intercede for my welfare. ... The people of Babylon blessed my kingship, and I settled all the lands in peaceful abodes.

All men have their frailties; and whoever looks for a friend without imperfections, will never find what he seeks.

O man, whoever you are and wherever you come from, for I know you will come, I am Cyrus who won the Persians their empire. Do not therefore begrudge me this bit of earth that covers my bones.

Even if the skies were shorter than my knees, I would not kneel.

A man's enjoyment of all good things is in exact proportion to the pains he has undergone to gain them.