Mencius

"True strength lies not in the muscles but in the character."

"The man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones."

"Virtue is its own reward."

"He who conquers himself is greater than he who conquers a thousand men in battle."

"The superior man is anxious lest he should not get the reputation he deserves."

"When you see men of worth, think of how to rise to their level; when you see men of no worth, reflect within yourself."

"A person of humanity and righteousness is loved and respected by all."

"The way of learning is to understand the root of the matter."

"Heaven's revenge is slow but sure."

"The path to heaven is not made of clouds."

"To nourish the heart-mind, nothing is better than to reduce one's desires."

"Righteousness overcomes profit, and benevolence overcomes cruelty."

"The superior man blames himself; the inferior man blames others."

"Only the benevolent can love and hate on behalf of Heaven."

"One should not pursue profit at the expense of righteousness."

"The nature of man is inclined toward good."

"Words easy to understand are hard to practice."

"Humility and propriety are the roots of virtue."

"The way of the superior man is threefold: virtue guides him, righteousness sustains him, and benevolence perfects him."

"To master a skill, practice with all your heart."

"The man who thinks he can, and the man who thinks he can't - they are both usually right."

"Friendship based on profit is degraded friendship."

"A true man is one whose heart is set on the right."

"The mind of the superior man is always free from prejudice and preconception."

"To be concerned with self-cultivation is to attend to the root."

"In learning the way, nothing is more practical than earnestness."

"Misfortune is a blessing in disguise if one learns from it."

"The strength of a nation lies in the strength of its families."

"One who rebels against the Way of Heaven will perish."

"The greatest victory is won without raising a sword."