If you think you see both Destruction and becoming, Then you see destruction and becoming Through impaired vision.

- Nagarjuna, "Mulamadhyamaka-Karika"

If you hold yourself dear then guard, guard yourself well. The wise person would stay awake nursing himself in any of the three watches of the night, the three stages of life. First he'd settle himself in what is correct, only then teach others. He wouldn't stain his name: he is wise.

- Dhammapada, 12, translated by Thanissaro Bhikkhu.

Don't associate with lowly qualities. Don't consort with heedlessness. Don't associate with wrong views. Don't busy yourself with the world. Get up! Don't be heedless. Live the Dhamma well. One who lives the Dhamma sleeps with ease in this world & the next.

But then it came to me as an insight that I should teach this truth, for it is also happiness. There are people whose sight is only a little clouded, and they are suffering through not hearing the reality. They would become the knowers of the truth. It was in this way I went forth to teach.

- Majjhima Nikaya

The Lord taught a holy life Not based on tradition, For restraint and abandoning, Leading to and merging in Nibbana. This is the path followed by the great, Pursued by the lofty sages. Those who enter that course As taught by the Enlightened One, Heeding the Teacher's instruction, Will make an end of suffering.

- Itivuttaka

Turn away from mischief. Again and again, turn away, Before sorrow befalls you. Set your heart on doing good. Do it over and over again, And you will be filled with joy.

- Dhammapada 117-118