Brief author info: Confucius (551-479 b.c.e.) Chinese philosopher and founder of Confucianism (K'ung Fu Tzu) Born of poor but aristocratic parents; joined Chinese civil service and rose to rank of minister in Chinese state of Lu; jealousy of peers caused breach with ruler, left service and became wandering sage. Returned to Lu in 485 and devoted remaining years to teaching; after his death, disciples collected his writings but probably made extensive changes. Basic tenets include promotion of moral (versus religious) values-especially benevolence (jen, or ren), reciprocity (shu) and filial piety (hsiao, or xiao) and emphasis on social control and obligation to society. Until recently, Confucianism was China's state religion; it is still a powerful force, especially among Chinese living overseas.
A man of humanity is one who, in seeking to establish himself, finds a foothold for others and who, desiring attainment for himself, helps others to attain.
Men do not stumble over mountains, but over molehills.
Respect yourself, and others will respect you.