Ruin and recovering are both from within.

If someone speaks badly of you, do not defend yourself against the accusations, but reply; "you obviously don't know about my other vices, otherwise you would have mentioned these as well

To get or not to get what we desire can be equally disappointing.

Freedom isn't the right or ability to do whatever you please. Freedom comes from understanding the limits of our own power and the inherent limits set in place by nature. By accepting life's limits and inevitabilities and working with them rather than fighting them, you become truly free.

Be not swept off your feet by the vividness of the impression, but say, "Impression, wait for me a little. Let me see what you are and what you represent. Let me try you."

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.

He who is not happy with little will never be happy with much.