We expect more of ourselves than we have any right to, in virtue of our endowments.

We cannot all hope to combine the pleasing qualities of good looks, brains, and eloquence.

It is of great use to the sailor to know the length of his line, though he cannot with it fathom all the depths of the ocean.

O my soul, do not aspire to immortal life, but exhaust the limits of the possible.

Knowledge of what is possible is the beginning of happiness.

Perhaps nobody ever accomplishes all that he feels lies in him to do; but nearly every one who tries his powers touches the walls of his being occasionally, and learns about how far to attempt to spring.

The greatest vessel hath but its measure.

Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.

A good marksman may miss.

We have to make peace with our limitations.