I have often wondered how it is that every man loves himself more than all the rest of men, but yet sets less value on his own opinion of himself than on the opinion of others.
The whole work of man really seems to consist in nothing but proving to himself every minute that he is a man and not a piano-key!
You should rather please yourself than the people; take thought for the quality, not the number, of judgements made about you.
From my mother, piety and beneficence, and abstinence, not only from evil deeds, but even from evil thoughts; and further, simplicity in my way of living, far removed from the habits of the rich.
Dwell on the beauty of life. Watch the stars, and see yourself running with them.
The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.