John Bradshaw Quotes

The superior man does not, even for the space of a single meal, act contrary to virtue. In moments of haste, he cleaves to it. In seasons of danger, he cleaves to it.

Virtue is a positive quality developed by taking a firm stand for the right in temptation, or by the suffering endured in consequence of wrongdoing.

Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent. Most talents are, to some extent, a gift. Good character, by contrast, is not given to us. We have to build it, piece by piece - by thought, choice, courage, and determination.

A man should be upright, not be kept upright.

Virtue must be valuable, if men and women of all degrees pretend to have it.

The strength of a man's virtue should not be measured by his special exertions, but by his habitual acts.

Virtue is the truest nobility.

Virtue consists, not in abstaining from vice, but in not desiring it.

Virtue comes by nature, learning, and practice, and thanks to virtue, all of the aforesaid may deserve approval.

Virtue shuns ease as a companion. It demands a rough and thorny path.

None deserve praise for being good who have not the spirit to be bad: goodness, for the most part, is nothing but indolence or weakness of will.

Do not feel lonely on the road of righteousness Because of the fewness of the walkers on it.

Virtue's a stronger guard than brass.

High moral character is not a precondition for great moral accomplishments.

A man has honor if he holds himself to an ideal of conduct though it is inconvenient, unprofitable, or dangerous to do so.

Character is that quality of mind which makes truth-telling instinctive rather than strange.

Even in decline, a virtuous man increases the beauty of his behavior. A burning stick, though turned to the ground, has its flame drawn upwards.

Moral courage is higher and a rarer virtue than physical courage.

Don't worry so much about your self-esteem. Worry more about your character. Integrity is its own reward.

If only for the sake of elegance, I try to remain morally pure.

Virtue is insufficient temptation.

Virtue could see to do what Virtue would by her own radiant light, though sun and moon where in the flat sea sunk.

I always admired virtue - but I could never imitate it.

Virtue is a habit of the mind, consistent with nature and moderation and reason.

To keep your character intact you cannot stoop to filthy acts. It makes it easier to stoop the next time.