A man ought not to value himself of his achievements or rare qualities of wit, much less of his riches, virtue or kindred.

virtue does not spring from riches, but riches and all other human blessings, both private and public, from virtue.

The company of just and righteous men is better than wealth and a rich estate.

The man who is completely wise and virtuous has no need of glory, except so far as it…eases his way to action by the greater trust that it procures him.

The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively.

...but if virtue were the wealth that is held in high esteem, I would not envy the fortunes of others or weep for my own misfortunes.

The life of man consists not in seeing visions and in dreaming dreams but in active charity and in willing service.

It is better to cherish virtue and humanity, by leaving much to free will . . . than to attempt to make men mere machines and instruments of a political benevolence.

If a man be without the virtues proper to humanity, what has he to do with the rites of propriety? If a man be without the virtues proper to humanity, what has he to do with music?

son, do not aspire for wealth and labor not only to be

The wise, and the worthy, need not the triumph of a pamphlet;

Let me attain no envied wealth, let me not plunder cities, neither be taken in turn, and face life in the power of another.

437. — We should not judge of a man's merit by his great abilities, but by the use he makes of them.

The names of virtues, with their precepts, were:
1. Temperance. Eat not do dullness; drink not to elevation.
2. Silence. Speak not but what may benefit others or yourself; avoid trifling conversation.
3. Order. Let all your things have their places; let each part of your business have its time.
4. Resolution: Resolve to perform what you ought; perform without fail what you resolve.
5. Frugality. Make no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e., waste nothing.
6. Industry. Lose no time; be always employ’d in something useful; cut off all unnecessary actions.
7. Sincerity. Use no hurtful deceit; think innocently and justly, and, if you speak, speak accordingly.
8. Justice. Wrong none by doing injuries, or omitting the benefits that are your duty.
9. Moderation. Avoid extreams; forbear resenting injuries so much as you think they deserve.
10. Cleanliness. Tolerate no uncleanliness in body, cloths, or habitation.
11. Tranquillity. Be not disturbed at trifles, or at accidents common or unavoidable.
12. Chastity. Rarely use venery but for health or offspring, never to dullness, weakness, or the injury of your own or another’s peace or reputation.
13. Humility. Imitate Jesus and Socrates.