Never promise more than you can perform.
Publilius SyrusRead
He has existed only, not lived, who lacks wisdom in old age.
Interpretation
True living in old age requires wisdom and the ability to reflect on life.
This quote suggests that merely existing is not enough for a fulfilling life, especially in old age. It emphasizes the importance of gaining wisdom through experiences and reflections over time, highlighting that a truly lived life is characterized by understanding and insight rather than just survival.
In practice
In a graduation speech, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of learning from experiences.
Never promise more than you can perform.
Pain forces even the innocent to lie.
In a heated argument we are apt to lose sight of the truth.
Admonish your friends privately, but praise them openly.
What a tragedy is help where it harms what it supports!
The miser is as much in want of what he has as of what he has not.
If you live in a past dream, you don't enjoy what is happening right now because you will always wish it to be different than it is. There is no time to miss anyone or anything because you are alive. Not enjoying what is happening right now is living in the past and being only half alive. This leads to self pity, suffering and tears.
The mark of your ignorance is the depth of your belief in injustice and tragedy. What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the Master calls the butterfly.
Do not be afraid; our fate Cannot be taken from us; it is a gift.
Many men are stored full of unused knowledge. Like loaded guns that are never fired off, or military magazines in times of peace, they are stuffed with useless ammunition.
When you get into your car, shut the door and be there for just half a minute. Breathe, feel the energy inside your body, look around at the sky, the trees. The mind might tell you, 'I don't have time.' But that's the mind talking to you. Even the busiest person has time for 30 seconds of space.
The world does not require so much to be informed as to be reminded.
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