It's so simple really: If you say you're going to do something, do it. If you start something, finish it.

Never in any case say I have lost such a thing, but I have returned it. Is your child dead? It is a return. Is your wife dead? It is a return. Are you deprived of your estate? Is not this also a return?

It is impossible that happiness, and yearning for what is not present, should ever be united.

We ought to flee the friendship of the wicked, and the enmity of the good.

On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.

Two principles we should always have ready — that there is nothing good or evil save in the will; and that we are not to lead events, but to follow them.

If you would be well spoken of, learn to be well-spoken; and having learnt to be well- spoken, strive also to be well-doing; so shall you succeed in being well spoken of.