Baltasar Gracian
Some are satisfied to stand politely before the portals of Fortune and to await her bidding; better those who push forward, who employ their enterprise, who on the wings of their worth and valor seek to embrace luck, and to effectively gain her favor.Collection: Wings
Excellence resides in quality, not in quantity. The best is always few and rare; much lowers value.Collection: Excellence
Politeness and a sense of honor have this advantage: we bestow them on others without losing a thing.Collection: Honor
It is a great deed to leave nothing for tomorrow.Collection: Future
Keep expectation alive. Keep stirring it up. Let much promise more, and great deeds herald greater.Collection: Expectations
A single lie destroys a whole reputation for integrity.Collection: Truth
Know how to ask. There is nothing more difficult for some people, nor for others, easier.Collection: Wisdom
Yes and no are soon said, but give much to think over.Collection: Thinking
Trust your heart, especially when it is a strong one.Collection: Strong
When everyone covets something, they are easily annoyed by it.Collection: Annoyed
Maturity of mind is best shown in slow belief.Collection: Maturity
Sometimes it proves the highest understanding not to understand.Collection: Wise
Be first the master of yourself.Collection: Firsts