Poverty is not a disgrace; disgrace lies in poverty without ambition. A mean position is not a cause for contempt; contempt belongs to one in a mean position without ability. Old age is no cause for regret; regret that one is old, having lived in vain. Death is no cause for sorrow; sorrow that one dies without benefit to the world.

Mr. Tut-tut (fl. 17th C.) Chinese collector of proverbs (pseud.)

One Hundred Proverbs