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.
The superior man is the providence of the inferior. He is eyes for the blind, strength for the weak, and a shield for the defenseless. He stands erect by bending above the fallen. He rises by lifting others.
The superior man blames himself. The inferior man blames others.
The superior man thinks always of virtue; the common man thinks of comfort.
The superior man acts before he speaks, and afterwards speaks according to his action.
The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.
The superior man acquaints himself with many sayings of antiquity and many deeds of the past, in order to strengthen his character thereby.
The superior man makes the difficulty to be overcome his first interest; success only comes later.
The superior man understands what is right; the inferior man understands what will sell.
The superior man does not, even for the space of a single meal, act contrary to virtue. In moments of haste, he cleaves to it. In seasons of danger, he cleaves to it.