Quote collection
904 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"These are the four abuses: desire to succeed in order to make oneself famous; taking credit for the labors of others; refusal to correct one's errors despite advice; refusal to change one's ideas despite warnings."
"A gentleman can see a question from all sides without bias. The small man is biased and can see a question only from one side."
"When you see a worthy person, endeavor to emulate him. When you see an unworthy person, then examine your inner self."
"Transport a handful of earth everyday and you will make a mountain."
"When you meet someone better than yourself, turn your thoughts to becoming his equal. When you meet someone not as good as you are, look within and examine your own self."
"It is true that we shall not be able to reach perfection, but in our struggle toward it we shall strengthen our characters and give stability to our ideas, so that, whilst ever advancing calmly in the same direction, we shall be rendered capable of applying the faculties with which we have been gifted to the best possible account."
"The love to Wisdom is getting closer to the own bright path."
"All wisdom is rooted in learning to call things by the right name. When things are properly identified, they fall into natural categories and understanding becomes orderly."
"The superior man is slow in his words and earnest in his conduct."
"No lake so still but it has its wave. No circle so perfect but that it has its blur. I would change things for you if I could; As I can't you must take them as they are."
"Don't be concerned about others not appreciating you. Be concerned about your not appreciating others."
"To know your faults and be able to change is the greatest virtue."
"A bit of fragrance always clings to the hand that gives roses. If you are generous, you will gain everything."
"Don't do unto others what you don't want others to do unto you."
"First there must be order and harmony within your own mind. Then this order will spread to your family, then to the community, and finally to your entire kingdom. Only then can you have peace and harmony."
"If you shoot for the stars and hit the moon, it's OK. But you've got to shoot for something. A lot of people don't even shoot."
"At fifteen, my mind was bent on learning. At thirty, I stood firm. At forty, I had no doubts. At fifty, I knew the decrees of Heaven. At sixty, my ear was receptive to truth. At seventy, I could follow my heart's desires without sin."
"We can know a person by observing his behaviour, understanding the reasons for his actions and ascertaining his intentions. If we do this, how can we not know him?"
"To understand yourself is the key to wisdom."
"It doesn't make a difference how gradually you go so long as you don't stop."