Freedom is not procured by a full enjoyment of what is desired, but by controlling the desire.

If your heart is quite set upon a crown, make and put on one of roses, for it will make the prettier appearance.

Reason is not measured by size or height, but by principle.

Shall I show you the sinews of a philosopher? What sinews are those? - A will undisappointed; evils avoided; powers daily exercised; careful resolutions; unerring decisions.

Do not laugh much or often or unrestrainedly.

Even as the Sun doth not wait for prayers and incantations to rise, but shines forth and is welcomed by all: so thou also wait not for clapping of hands and shouts and praise to do thy duty; nay, do good of thine own accord, and thou wilt be loved like the Sun.

Give me by all means the shorter and nobler life, instead of one that is longer but of less account!