Man is born for uprightness. If a man lose his uprightness and yet live, his escape from death is mere good fortune.

The nobler sort of man emphasizes the good qualities in others, and does not accentuate the bad. The inferior does.

Fine words and an insinuating appearance are seldom associated with true virtue.

In struggling with misfortunes lies the true proof of virtue.

Guide the people by law, subdue them by punishment; they may shun crime, but will be void of shame. Guide them by example, subdue them by courtesy; they will learn shame, and come to be good.

Leaving virtue without proper cultivation; not thoroughly discussing what is learned; not being able to move towards righteousness of which a knowledge is gained; and not being able to change what is not good: - these are the things which occasion me solicitude.