Classic words to reflect on

Never leave that till to-morrow, which you can do to-day.

There are no gains without pains;

the journey of a thousand li commenced with a single step.

The highest excellence is like (that of) water.

He who knows other men is discerning; he who knows himself is intelligent.

He who overcomes others is strong; he who overcomes himself is mighty.

He who is satisfied with his lot is rich;

The soft overcomes the hard; and the weak the strong.

Clay is fashioned into vessels; but it is on their empty hollowness, that their use depends.

He who knows (the Tao) does not (care to) speak (about it); he who is (ever ready to) speak about it does not know it.

Man at his birth is supple and weak; at his death, firm and strong.

no calamity greater than to be discontented with one's lot;

There are things which are within our power, and there are things which are beyond our power.

Men are disturbed not by things, but by the views which they take of things.

Demand not that events should happen as you wish; but wish them to happen as they do happen, and you will go on well.

If you would improve, be content to be thought foolish and dull with regard to externals.

Remember that you are an actor in a drama of such sort as the Author chooses—

Be not elated at any excellence not your own.

In every affair consider what precedes and what follows, and then undertake it.

Upon every accident, remember to turn toward yourself and inquire what faculty you have for its use.

When, therefore, anyone provokes you, be assured that it is your own opinion which provokes you.

Never proclaim yourself a philosopher, nor make much talk among the ignorant about your principles, but show them by actions.

If it be not fitting, do it not. If it be not true, speak it not.

The best kind of revenge is, not to become like unto them.