Above all things, respect thyself.
In the next place, observe Justice in thy actions and in thy words; and accustom not thyself in anything without rule and without reason.
Always make this reflection, that it is ordained by Destiny for all men to die; and that the goods of fortune are uncertain. As they may be acquired, they may likewise be lost.
Concerning all the calamities that men suffer by Divine Fortune, support with patience thy lot, be what it will, and never repine at it, but endeavor what thou canst to remedy it, and consider that Fate does not send the greatest portion of these misfortunes to good men.
There are amongst men several sorts of reasonings, good and bad. Admire them not too easily and reject them not either, but if any falsehoods be advanced, give way with mildness and arm thy with patience.
— Pythagoras, “The Golden Verses of Pythagoras”