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

Brevity is the soul of command. Too much talking suggests desperation on the part of the leader. Speak shortly, decisively and to the point–and couch your desires in such natural logic that no one can raise objections. Then move on.

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

We love ourselves notwithstanding our faults, and we ought to love our friends in like manner.

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

Diversity in counsel, unity in command.

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.