In theory there is nothing to hinder our following what we are taught;but in life there are many things to draw us aside.

Once you know who you are and to whom you are linked, you will know what to do

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

Confident because of our caution

The soul's impurity consists in bad judgements, and purification consists in producing in it right judgements, and the pure soul is one which has right judgements, for this alone is proof against confusion and pollution in its functions.

Nothing outside the will can hinder or harm the will; it can only harm itself. If then we accept this, and, when things go amiss, are inclined to blame ourselves, remembering that judgment alone can disturb our peace and constancy, I swear to you by all the gods that we have made progress.

Some of their faults men readily admit, but others not so readily.