"A thorn defends the rose, harming only those who would steal the blossom."

"The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials."

"Better to light a candle than to curse the darkness."

"He who strikes the first blow admits he's lost the argument."

"Do not remove a fly from your friend's forehead with a hatchet."

"Do not fear going forward slowly; fear only to stand still."

"Take hold lightly; let go lightly. This is one of the great secrets of felicity in love."

"Make your bargain before beginning to plow."

"If you wish your merit to be known, acknowledge that of other people."

"Seize opportunity by the beard, for it is bald behind."

"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."

"Who begins too much accomplishes little."