Quote

1242·Kōshōji, Japan

Students, when you want to say something, think about it three times before you say it. Speak only if your words will benefit yourselves and others. Do not speak if it brings no benefit.

Similar Thoughts

Confucius·500 BC

The man of perfect virtue is cautious and slow in his speech. When a man feels the difficulty of doing, can he be other than cautious and slow in speaking?

Francis Bacon·1625

Read not to contradict and confute; nor to believe and take for granted; nor to find talk and discourse; but to weigh and consider.

Theodore Roosevelt·1903

Let us speak courteously, deal fairly, and keep ourselves armed and ready.

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