Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
ConfuciusRead
Have no friends not equal to yourself.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Surround yourself with friends who are on the same level as you, both morally and intellectually.
This quote by Confucius emphasizes the importance of choosing friends wisely. It suggests that one's friendships should reflect one's own values, skills, and aspirations, encouraging relationships that promote mutual growth and understanding rather than fostering situations that could lead to inequality or conflict.
Themes
FriendshipEqualityWisdomValuesRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech on building healthy relationships, you could use this quote to emphasize the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals.
More from Confucius
All quotes βEarnest in practicing the ordinary virtues, and careful in speaking about them, if, in his practice, he has anything defective, the superior man dares not but exert himself; and if, in his words, he has any excess, he dares not allow himself such license.
ConfuciusRead
When you see a good person, think of becoming like her/him. When you see someone not so good, reflect on your own weak points.
ConfuciusRead
Never give a sword to a man who can't dance.
ConfuciusRead
The superior man is distressed by the limitations of his ability; he is not distressed by the fact that men do not recognize the ability that he has.
ConfuciusRead
Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.
ConfuciusRead
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If a friend asks a favor, you should grant it if it is reasonable; if not, tell him plainly why you cannot: You will wrong him and wrong yourself by equivocation of any kind.
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With another shock of excitement, Harry saw Sirius give James the thumbs-up. Sirius was lounging in his chair at his ease, tilting it back on two legs. He was very good-looking, his dark hair fell into his eyes with a sort of casual elegance neither James's nor Harry's could ever have achieved, and a girl sitting behind him was eyeing him hopefully, though he didn't seem to have noticed.
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And much more am I sorrier for my good knights' loss than for the loss of my fair queen; for queens I might have enough, but such a fellowship of good knights shall never be together in no company.
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Old friendships are like meats served up repeatedly, cold, comfortless, and distasteful. The stomach turns against them.
William HazlittRead