We do not choose our own parts in life, and have nothing to do with those parts. Our duty is confined to playing them well.

These reasonings are unconnected: "I am richer than you, therefore I am better"; "I am more eloquent than you, therefore I am better." The connection is rather this: "I am richer than you, therefore my property is greater than yours;" "I am more eloquent than you, therefore my style is better than yours." But you, after all, are neither property nor style.

Were I a nightingale, I would act the part of a nightingale; were I a swan, the part of a swan.

If you have assumed a character above your strength, you have both acted in this matter in an unbecoming way, and you have neglected that which you might have fulfilled.

He who exercises wisdom exercises the knowledge which is about God.

It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.

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.