"It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows."
"If you want to improve, be content to be thought foolish and stupid."
"First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do."
"No great thing is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen."
"If you would be a reader, read; if a writer, write."
"On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use."
"If someone is able to show me that what I think or do is not right, I will happily change, for I seek the truth, by which no one was ever truly harmed. It is the person who continues in his self-deception and ignorance who is harmed."