The recognition of man's imperfection, which should challenge in him a struggle against his own evil propensities and forbearance toward the weakness of others. Courage and strength, both in bearing the hard decrees of fate, and in fighting against enemies. The struggle for independence in life with regard to knowledge as well as fortune, an independence which should, therefore, be earned by a love of learning and by industry. A friend more trusty can no man ever have than a good understanding. The half of riches depends on quickness.
Sorrow consumes the heart when thou hast no one to whom thou canst open thy whole mind.
That is a communion of soul where each can say confidentially to the other all his thoughts. Anything is better than to be false. Laugh not at the gray-haired speaker. That is often good which the aged have to say. Often from the wrinkled skin come forth words of wisdom.