A noble man compares and estimates himself by an idea which is higher than himself; and a mean man, by read more

A noble man compares and estimates himself by an idea which is higher than himself; and a mean man, by one lower than himself. The one produces aspiration; the other ambition, which is the way in which a vulgar man aspires.

You are rewarding a teacher poorly if you remain always a pupil.

You are rewarding a teacher poorly if you remain always a pupil.

But wild Ambition loves to slide, not stand,
And Fortune's ice prefers to Virtue's land.

But wild Ambition loves to slide, not stand,
And Fortune's ice prefers to Virtue's land.

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

First say to yourself what you would be; and then do what you have to do.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that read more

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.

Most people would succeed in small things if they were not troubled with great ambitions.

Most people would succeed in small things if they were not troubled with great ambitions.

They please, are pleas'd, they give to get esteem
Till, seeming blest, they grow to what they seem.

They please, are pleas'd, they give to get esteem
Till, seeming blest, they grow to what they seem.

But what will not ambition and revenge
Descend to? who aspires must down as low
As high read more

But what will not ambition and revenge
Descend to? who aspires must down as low
As high he soar'd, obnoxious first and last
To basest things.

Ambition is the last refuge of failure.

Ambition is the last refuge of failure.