Confucius

Instead of being concerned that you have no office, be concerned to think how you may fit yourself for office. Instead of being concerned that you are not known, seek to be worthy of being known.

The book salesman should be honored because he brings to our attention, as a rule, the very books we need most and neglect most.

The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.

He who acts with a constant view to his own advantage will be much murmured against.

Look not at what is contrary to propriety; listen not to what is contrary to propriety; speak not what is contrary to propriety; make no movement which is contrary to propriety.

The firm, the enduring, the simple, and the modest are near to virtue.

Look at the means which a man employs, consider his motives, observe his pleasures. A man simply cannot conceal himself!

The superior man does not, even for the space of a single meal, act contrary to virtue. In moments of haste, he cleaves to it. In seasons of danger, he cleaves to it.

If some years were added to my life, I would give fifty to the study of the Yi, and then I might come to be without great faults.

When you are laboring for others let it be with the same zeal as if it were for yourself.

The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later.

Virtuous people often revenge themselves for the constraints to which they submit by the boredom which they inspire.

When we see persons of worth, we should think of equaling them; when we see persons of a contrary character, we should turn inwards and examine ourselves.

I am not one who was born in the possession of knowledge; I am one who is fond of antiquity, and earnest in seeking it there.

If you look into your own heart, and you find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear?

The faults of a superior person are like the sun and moon. They have their faults, and everyone sees them; they change and everyone looks up to them.

He who exercises government by means of his virtue may be compared to the north polar star, which keeps its place and all the stars turn towards it.

A youth, when at home, should be filial and, abroad, respectful to his elders. He should be earnest and truthful. He should overflow in love to all and cultivate the friendship of the good. When he has time and opportunity, after the performance of these things, he should employ them in polite studies.

How to play music may be known. At the commencement of the piece, all the parts should sound together. As it proceeds, they should be in harmony while severally distinct and flowing without break, and thus on to the conclusion.

Go before the people with your example, and be laborious in their affairs.