Quotes from lavater johann kaspar iv

Three things characterize man: person, fate, merit--the harmony of these constitutes real grandeur.

The greatest of characters, no doubt, would be he, who, free of all trifling accidental helps, could see objects through one grand immutable medium, always at hand, and proof against illusion and time, reflecting every object in its true shape and color through all the fluctuation of things.

Who forces himself on others, is to himself a load.

He, who boldly interposes between a merciless censor and his prey, is a man of vigor: and he who, mildly wise, without wounding, convinces him of his error, commands our veneration.

Who has witnessed one free and unconstrained act of yours, has witnessed all.

Who is respectable when thinking himself alone and free from observation will be so before the eye of all the world.

The immoderate cannot laugh moderately.

True genius repeats itself forever, and never repeats itself--one ever varied sense beams novelty and unity on all.

Who will sacrifice nothing, and enjoy all, is a fool.

Act well at the moment, and you have performed a good action to all eternity.

He scatters enjoyment who can enjoy much.

Where consequence ceases, there folly, restlessness and misery begin.

The smiles that encourage severity of judgment hide malice and insincerity.

Who is fatal to others is so to himself.

Humility with energy is often mistaken for pride.

Avoid the eye that discovers with rapidity the bad, and is slow to see the good.

Who makes quick use of the moment is a genius of prudence.