Julia

“[...] the diversity of our opinions, consequently, does not arise from some being endowed with a larger share of reason than others, but solely from this, that we conduct our thoughts along different ways, and do not fix our attention on the same objects. For to be possessed of a vigorous mind is not enough; the prime requisite is rightly to apply it. The greatest minds, as they are capable of the highest excellences, are open likewise to the greatest aberrations; and those who travel very slowly may yet make far greater progress, provided they keep always to the straight road, than those who, while they run, forsake it.”
― René Descartes, Discourse on Method and Meditations on First Philosophy

“When the work is done, and one's name is becoming distinguished, to withdraw into obscurity is the way of Heaven.”
― Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

“Therefore the sufficiency of contentment is an enduring and unchanging sufficiency.”
― Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

“Therefore the sage seeks to satisfy (the craving of) the belly, and not the (insatiable longing of the) eyes.”
― Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching