It is no wonder that we all more or less delight in the mediocre, because it leaves us in peace: it gives us the comfortable feeling of intercourse with what is like ourselves.

Duty: where a man loves what he commands himself to do.

The thoughtful and honest observer is always learning more and more of his limitations;

This also explains how it is that truths which have been recognised are at first tacitly admitted, and then gradually spread, so that the very thing which was obstinately denied appears at last as something quite natural.

In contemplation as in action, we must distinguish between what may be attained and what is unattainable. Without this, little can be achieved, either in life or in knowledge.

Everything that frees our spirit without giving us control of ourselves is ruinous.

Some men think about the defects of their friends, and there is nothing to be gained by it. I have always paid attention to the merits of my enemies, and found it an advantage.

The man who wants to be active and has to be so, need only think of what is fitting at the moment, and he will make his way without difficulty.

Nothing is more highly to be prized than the value of each day.