One should raise the self by the self; one should not let the self fall. The self alone is the self's friend; the self alone is the self's enemy.

Not to be aware of one's own shortcomings is the greatest human shortcoming. To see one's own fault is the sign of modesty.

The method of spiritual purification is to reflect and meditate on the evil of this world and to perceive that it is false and fleeting, and to make the heart empty of it.

Those seeking to satisfy their desires and experience pleasure will instead find spiritual dryness and distraction, as true fulfillment can only be found through introspection.