“The getting that (favour) leads to the apprehension (of losing it), and the losing it leads to the fear of (still greater calamity):—this is what is meant by saying that favour and disgrace would seem equally to be feared.”

“Favour and disgrace would seem equally to be feared; honour and great calamity, to be regarded as personal conditions (of the same kind).”

“To lead people, walk beside them ...As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence.The next best, the people honor and praise.The next, the people fear; and the next, the people hate ...When the best leader's work is done the people say,We did it ourselves!”

“no calamity greater than to be discontented with one's lot;”

“There is no calamity greater than lightly engaging in war.”

“He who would so win it destroys it; he who would hold it in his grasp loses it.”

“Some lose yet gain, others gain and yet lose.”