Maxims and Reflections

Ignorant people raise questions which were answered by the wise thousands of years ago.

What a day it is when we must envy the men in their graves!

A man must cling to the belief that the incomprehensible is comprehensible; otherwise he would not try to fathom it.

First let a man teach himself, and then he will be taught by others.

This also explains how it is that truths which have been recognised are at first tacitly admitted, and then gradually spread, so that the very thing which was obstinately denied appears at last as something quite natural.

The thoughtful and honest observer is always learning more and more of his limitations;

And in acting thus he remains equally at ease whether the majority agree with him or he finds himself in a minority. For he has done what he could: he has expressed his convictions; and he is not master of the minds or hearts of others.

The discerning man who acknowledges his limitations is not far off perfection.

The things that are true, good, excellent, are simple and always alike, whatever their appearance may be.