It is better to be the hammer than the anvil.

Busyness

The man who has nothing to do is always the busiest.

Contentment

What makes us discontented with our condition is the absurdly exaggerated idea we have of the happiness of others.

Deeds and Good Deeds

Those who shine in the second rank, are eclipsed by the first.

Experience

I know by my own pot how the others boil.

Fathers

A father is a banker provided by nature.

Fortune

Against change of fortune set a brave heart.

Glutton

Glutton: one who digs his grave with his teeth.

Gratitude

Gratitude is the heart's memory.

Intelligence and Intellectuals

It's good to be clever, but not to show it.

Leaders and Leadership

When a blind man bears the standard, pity those who follow.

Love

In love, there is always one who kisses and one who offers the cheek.

Merit

Speak little and well if you wish to be esteemed a person of merit.

Misfortunes

People will ignore their misfortunes and their interests when they are in competition with their pleasures.

Prudence

Never speak of a rope in the family of one who has been hanged.

Sin

A sin confessed is half forgiven.

Talent

Everyone according to their talent and every talent according to its work.

Time and Time Management

Life is half spent before one knows what it is.

Work

Work relieves us from three great evils, boredom, vice, and want.