Those Who Succeed in Life

A sage was asked about those who succeed in life, and he answered: They are those who have profited by their lives — who have laughed much and loved much, and won the respect of intelligent men, the trust of noble women, and the love of little children.

They are those who do well every task they undertake, however small; who perform their duty, however heavy; and who make their memory immortal by what they create for the good of society. And if it is not given them to produce a useful invention or a new book, then at the very least they leave behind them a praised memory, a glorious character, and a happy life...