The things which we hold in our hands, which we see with our eyes, and which our avarice hugs, are transitory, they may be taken from us by ill luck or by violence; but a kindness lasts even after the loss of that by means of which it was bestowed; for it is a good deed, which no violence can undo.

Prosperity asks for fidelity; adversity exacts it.

There is no grace in a benefit that sticks to the fingers.

No man esteems anything that comes to him by chance; but when it is governed by reason, it brings credit both to the giver and receiver; whereas those favors are in some sort scandalous that make a man ashamed of his patron.

Not how long, but how well you have lived is the main thing.

A benefit consists not in what is done or given, but in the intention of the giver or doer.

If we let things terrify us, life will not be worth living.