Absolute monarchies are those in which all power is given to or, as is more often the case, taken by, the monarch. Examples of absolute power corrupting are Roman emperors (who declared themselves... Read more →
The greater our knowledge, the greater our influence on others. The phrase implies that with knowledge or education one's potential or abilities in life will certainly increase. Having and sharing... Read more →
Think before you criticize others, for you may be criticized yourself in return. The source is Matthew, vii, 1. It is part of the sermon of the mount and reads in the Moffatt translation: 'Judge... Read more →
Here 'mother' means something that gives rise to something else. If we do not really need a thing, the lack of it does not trouble us, but when the need for it becomes so great that we cannot do... Read more →
The written word is more to be feared than the physical force. 'Tyranny has not enemy as formidable as the pen,' wrote William Cobbett , and John Taylor gave us this: Pens are most dangerous tools,... Read more →
Don't take extreme measures to get rid of something quite trivial. Don't exaggerate your difficulties. We owe the following to an unknown poet: Don't make tragedies of trifles, Don't shoot... Read more →
This teaches wise economy. Concentrate on saving small amounts and in time you will have a large amount.
Life becomes very monotonous without some break in the daily routine. William Cowper wrote in his long poem, The Task: Variety is the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavour.
It is also the art of hoping. We must be patient and not despair.
'When compelled to chose one of two evils,' wrote Socrates, 'no one will chose the greater when he my choose the lesser.' Charles H. Spurgeon, the great Baptist minister, took a stronger view: 'Of... Read more →