Sydney Smith Quotes & Sayings

“Marriage resembles a pair of shears, so joined that they cannot be separated; often moving in opposite directions, yet always punishing anyone who comes between them.”

“The thing about performance, even if it's only an illusion, is that it is a celebration of the fact that we do contain within ourselves infinite possibilities.”

“A great deal of talent is lost to the world for want of a little courage. Every day sends to their graves obscure men whose timidity prevented them from making a first effort.”

“It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do little - do what you can.”

“Life is to be fortified by many friendships. To love and to be loved is the greatest happiness of existence.”

“Madam, I have been looking for a person who disliked gravy all my life; let us swear eternal friendship.”

“Manners are like the shadows of virtues, they are the momentary display of those qualities which our fellow creatures love and respect.”

“Do not try to push your way through to the front ranks of your profession; do not run after distinctions and rewards; but do your utmost to find an entry into the world of beauty.”

“Whatever you are by nature, keep to it; never desert your line of talent. Be what nature intended you for, and you will succeed.”

“Find fault when you must find fault in private, and if possible sometime after the offense, rather than at the time.”