Never discuss other folks' affairs except with the common-sense view of
doing the folks good. Never start out to do a thing which is impossible
of execution. Never start back after you have started out. Never pay the
slightest attention to the criticism of persons who are trying to do
what you are trying to do. When he who has ever done you a kindness gets
angry and addresses you angrily, ponder on every word he says. Pearls
then drop from his mouth. Live in no great regard of the passing
fashion; it may be a very foolish one, and people who are foolish have
a surprising power of perception in pointing to folly in others. Owe no
man other than your good office. Have no pride above your fellow mortal;
he is essentially like you.