“Is the object of his thought lofty in its character, so is he. Is it low, so is he. We rise or fall, we ascend or descend, according to our ideals.”
Source: Talks for the Times (1896), "The Importance of Correct Ideals" (1892), p. 273
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William H. Crogman 7
American classical philologist 1841–1931Related quotes
Source: Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers (1895), P. 304.
"Capitalism is evil," says new Michael Moore film, Mike, Collett-White, Reuters, 6 September 2009 http://www.reuters.com/article/lifestyleMolt/idUSTRE5850F320090906,
2009

“He who cherishes a beautiful vision, a lofty ideal in his heart, will one day realize it.”
As A Man Thinketh (1902), Visions and Ideals

Source: Human Nature and the Social Order, 1902, p. 182 (1922)

“Man never falls so low, that he can see nothing higher than himself.”
"A Lesson for the Day; or The Christianity of Christ, of the Church, and of Society" in The Dial (October 1940), p. 196.
Context: Every man has at times in his mind the Ideal of what he should be, but is not. This ideal may be high and complete, or it may be quite low and insufficient; yet in all men, that really seek to improve, it is better than the actual character. Perhaps no one is satisfied with himself, so that he never wishes to be wiser, better, and more holy. Man never falls so low, that he can see nothing higher than himself.

To William Randolph Hearst. Quoted in "Ask Me Anything: Our Adventures with Khrushchev" - Page 152 - by William Randolph Hearst - 1960

“Where are we going? Do not ask! Ascend, descend. There is no beginning and no end.”
The Saviors of God (1923)
Context: Where are we going? Do not ask! Ascend, descend. There is no beginning and no end. Only this present moment exists, full of bitterness, full of sweetness, and I rejoice in it all.

Letters and Papers from Prison (1967; 1997), The Friend

Bowing is a courtesy for the host who invites him as well drinking a cup.
Source: The Analects, Chapter III