Monday, February 6, 2012

Great Author Series: Ben Franklin


Benjamin Franklin (1706-1790) was an American publisher, author, inventor, scientist and diplomat. He was one of the founding fathers of the U.S., and a major figure in the American Enlightenment. Franklin formed the first public lending library and fire department.

Much of his wisdom is remembered from perceptive maxims which have survived the centuries. Here is a select list of notable quotations:

-The noblest question in the world is, “What good may I do in it?

-All humanity is divided into three classes: those who are immovable, those who are movable, and those who move.

-Well done is better than well said.

-He that lives upon hope will die fasting.

-Early to bed and early to rise make a man healthy, wealthy and wise.

Selected by quoteflections.

-Reading makes a full Man, Meditation a profound Man, Discourse a clear Man.

-Never ruin an apology with an excuse.

-An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.

-A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.

-Never confuse Motion with Action.

-If you would be wealthy, think of saving as well as getting.

-Beware of little expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship.

-When you are finished changing, you're finished.

-When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.

-To be humble to superiors is a duty, to equals courtesy, to inferiors nobleness.

-The best thing to give to your enemy is forgiveness; to an opponent, tolerance; to a friend, your heart; to your child, a good example; to a father, deference; to your mother, conduct that will make her proud of you; to yourself, respect; to all others, charity.

-If everyone is thinking alike, then no one is thinking.

Selected by quoteflections.

-The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.

-Life's biggest tragedy is that we get old too soon and wise too late.

-Be civil to all; sociable to many; familiar with few; friend to one; enemy to none.

Labels: best top quotes, quotations, reflections, instructional, inspirational, life lessons, insights, self help, great author series