From this instant on, vow to stop disappointing yourself. Separate yourself from the mob. Decide to be extraordinary and do what you need to do -- now.

What else can I do, a lame old man, but sing hymns to God? If I were a nightingale, I would do the nightingale's part; if I were a swan, I would do as a swan. But now I am a rational creature, and I ought to praise God. This is my work. I do it, nor will I desert my post, so long as I am allowed to keep it. And I ask you to join me in this same song.

Caretake this moment. Immerse yourself in its particulars. Respond to this person, this challenge, this deed. Quit evasions. Stop giving yourself needless trouble. It is time to really live; to fully inhabit the situation you happen to be in now.

If thy brother wrongs thee, remember not so much his wrong-doing, but more than ever that he is thy brother.

One that desires to excel should endeavor in those things that are in themselves most excellent.

Have the wisdom to know what cannot be changed, and the strength to change what can.

Nature hath given men one tongue but two ears, that we may hear from others twice as much as we speak.