Thursday, April 3, 2008

My dad's old notebook

My dad was born near Vilnius, Lithuania. Whilst learning and reading English in England as a young man, he compiled philosophy quotes in a notebook. Here are my favourites. There is a freshness about some of them, even though they are old. Others have an ancient ring, but could have been written yesterday. Can you imagine what my dad is like?

They must often change who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.
A man's best possession is a sympathetic wife.
Attitudes are more important than facts.
A peaceful mind generates power.
Behaviour is a mirror in which everyone shows his image.
Ask nothing, expect nothing, accept everything.
When gods were more human, men were more divine.
For tragedy forges the will into a mighty instrument of power.
Cynicism is the weapon of the wounded.
You cannot win Heaven if you betray earth.
He who offends against Heaven has none to whom he can pray.
To do injustice is more disgraceful than to suffer it.
Good manners cost nothing but add enormously to the quality of everyday living.
How sad that being well-mannered is often regarded these days as a weakness.
Intellect is invisible to the one who has none.
The trouble with being tolerant is that people think you don't understand the problem.
Forgive seventy times seven.
Gratitude is the fruit of a great cultivation. You do not find it among gross people.
Waste no tears over the griefs of yesterday.
No one can be called unhappy if he acts in accordance with virtue.
When you are good to others you are best to yourself.
A bit of fragrance always clings to the hand that gives roses.
Knowledge is gained by learning; trust by doubt; skill by practice; love by love.

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Discover The Tale of Genji, the 11th Century classic of Japan (click image)

Discover The Tale of Genji, the 11th Century classic of Japan (click image)
Kiyomizudera Temple has a large veranda looking out over Kyoto and beyond