Property is unstable, and youth perishes in a moment. Life itself is held in the grinning fangs of Death, Yet men delay to obtain release from the world. Alas, the conduct of mankind is surprising.
PlautusRead
I had much rather be adorned by beauty of character than by jewels. Jewels are the gift of fortune, character comes from within.
Interpretation
True beauty lies in one's character rather than in material possessions.
This quote emphasizes the importance of inner qualities and moral character over external adornments and material wealth. While jewels symbolize fortune and status, the beauty of character is a deeper, intrinsic quality that defines a person's true worth and is cultivated from within, underscoring that character is far more valuable than superficial possessions.
In practice
During a speech about personal values, one might use this quote to illustrate the importance of inner beauty.
Property is unstable, and youth perishes in a moment. Life itself is held in the grinning fangs of Death, Yet men delay to obtain release from the world. Alas, the conduct of mankind is surprising.
Things we do not expect, happen more frequently than we wish.
The gods confound the man who first found out How to distinguish hours! Confound him, too, Who in this place set up a sun-dial, To cut and hack my days so wretchedly Into small portions.
I would rather be adorned by beauty of character than jewels. Jewels are the gift of fortune, while character comes from within.
If I can only keep my good name, I shall have riches enough.
Spice a dish with love and it pleases every palate.
Inner freedom is not guided by our efforts; it comes from seeing what is true.
In our world, we have this huge focus on vicarious living - politicians, movie stars, athletes, coaches, all these people. What our research has shown very clearly is that people who are really happier and have more meaningful lives are people that focus on living their own lives.
I used to have a real problem with self-pity. Every time the devil would throw a pity party, I would attend.
I don't have to tell you it goes without saying there are some things better left unsaid. I think that speaks for itself. The less said about it the better.
At the moment of vision, the eyes see nothing.
Why is the sea king of a hundred streams? Because it lies below them... If the sage would guide the people, he must serve with humility. If he would lead them, he must follow behind. In this way when the sage rules, the people will not feel oppressed.
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