November 4

Arguments always do more to darken the truth than to make it clearer.

The truth must ripen in unity. And when it ripens, it is so clear that it is accepted without arguments.

1

There is great power in the one who can stay silent despite being right.

— Cato

2

Refrain from arguing—arguing is the least effective way of convincing others. Opinions are like nails: the more you strike them, the deeper they go in.

— Juvenal

3

If someone insulted you or made you unhappy, take care not to object while you are angry and, if an explanation is needed, then first of all you must calm your spiritual anxiety.

— From “Devout Thoughts”

4

Do not assert what you do not absolutely believe. Do not rush to believe everything you hear.

— From “Devout Thoughts”

5

If you cannot immediately calm your anger, restrain your tongue. Stay silent and you will soon calm down.

— Baxter

6

Is it rational to feel indignant at a person who is suffering from some repulsive disease? What is he guilty of that his presence offends you? You should treat moral diseases the same way.

“But,” you might say, “a human being has reason, which he can use to perceive his vices.” That is true. Consequently, you too possess reason, and you can use it to make your neighbor aware of his failings. So show it then, awaken a person’s conscience and heal his blindness without anger, impatience or arrogance.

— Marcus Aurelius

7

The word is the key to the heart. If a discussion is not going anywhere, then even a single word is superfluous.

— Chinese saying

8

When you are alone, think of your sins. When you are in society, forget the sins of others.

— Chinese saying

The more you want to speak, the more you are in danger of saying something bad.