The feeling of compassion is the sprout of benevolence; shame, of righteousness; deference, of propriety; right and wrong, of wisdom.

The people are most important; the altars of state come next; the ruler is least important.

Favorable timing is less important than geographical advantage, and that is less important than unity among people.

The trouble with people is that they love playing teacher to others.

We survive through adversity and perish through comfort.

Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom. Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power.

-- Laozi

It is in the knowledge of the true conditions of our life that we must draw our strength to live and our reasons to act.

-- Simone de Beauvoir

Each of us carries a heaven-sent mission; living joyfully in pursuit of that calling is the first requirement of a well-lived life.

-- Shibusawa Eiichi

Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing.

-- Warren Buffett

I'm only rich because I know when I'm wrong.

-- George Soros

All the successful entrepreneurs I've met have one thing in common: they all want to talk about their mistakes.

-- Stephen A. Schwarzman