Imitation is for the most part so unconscious that its effects are almost unheeded, but its influence is not the less permanent on that account. It is only when an impressive nature is placed in contact with an impressionable one that the alteration in the character becomes recognizable. Yet even the weakest natures exercise some influence upon those about them. The approximation of feeling, thought, and habit is constant, and the action of example unceasing.
Many are the lives of men unwritten, which have nevertheless as powerfully influenced civilization and progress as the more fortunate Great whose names are recorded in biography. Even the humblest person, who sets before his fellows an example of industry, sobriety, and upright honesty of purpose in life, has a present as well as a future influence upon the well-being of his country; for his life and character pass unconsciously into the lives of others, and propagate good example for all time to come.
The tyrant, it has been said, is but a slave turned inside out.
SAMUEL SMILES, Self-help: With Illustrations of Character, Conduct, and Perseverance
Where men or nations have broken down, it will almost invariably be found that neglect of little things was the rock on which they split.
SAMUEL SMILES, Self-help: With Illustrations of Character, Conduct, and Perseverance
The road of human welfare lies along the old highway of steadfast well-doing; and they who are the most persistent, and work in the truest spirit, will usually be the most successful.
SAMUEL SMILES, Self-Help
Misfortune is next door to stupidity, and it will often be found that men who are constantly lamenting their luck, are in some way or other reaping the consequences of their own neglect, mismanagement, improvidence, or want of application.
SAMUEL SMILES, Self-Help
Integrity in word and deed is the backbone of character.
SAMUEL SMILES, Self-Help
Every word, thought, and deed has its influence upon the destiny of man. Every life, well spent or ill spent, bears with it a long train of consequences, extending through generations yet unborn.
SAMUEL SMILES, attributed, Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers
The possession of a library, or the free use of it, no more constitutes learning, than the possession of wealth constitutes generosity.
