Because a thing seems difficult for you, do not think it impossible for anyone to accomplish.

It is not the body, nor the personality that is the true self. The true self is eternal. Even on the point of death we can say to ourselves, "my true self is free. I cannot be contained."

As for life, it is a battle and a sojourning in a strange land; but the fame that comes after is oblivion.

I, who have never willfully pained another, have no business to pain myself.

Or is it your reputation that's bothering you? But look at how soon we're all forgotten. The abyss of endless time that swallows it all. The emptiness of those applauding hands. The people who praise us; how capricious they are, how arbitrary. And the tiny region it takes place. The whole earth a point in space - and most of it uninhabited.

Prize that which is best in the universe; and this is that which useth everything and ordereth everything.

This is the mark of a perfect character - to pass through each day as though it were the last, without agitation, without torpor, and without pretense.