When we conquer without danger our triumph is without glory.

Do not pursue what is illusory - property and position: all that is gained at the expense of your nerves decade after decade and can be confiscated in one fell night. Live with a steady superiority over life - don't be afraid of misfortune, and do not yearn after happiness; it is after all, all the same: the bitter doesn't last forever, and the sweet never fills the cup to overflowing.

I have long since come to believe that people never mean half of what they say, and that it is best to disregard their talk and judge only their actions.