Quotes/aphorisms that have actually helped you in life

[natedogg]

For me, it's a quote from Beowulf. Beowulf finally realizes what it is he's facing and after a night of drinking and partying, (preparing for his final battle with Grendel), he goes down to the beach and plants his sword in the tide, leaving it.

As he heads off to fight Grendel, he is asked, "why do you leave your sword?" and he answers "because you can't fight the sea with a sword".

I cannot believe how many times in my life that quote has popped into my head because it was relevant and helped me to deal with a situation.

You cannot fight the sea with a sword.

PS: If you respond, even just to comment, please include a quote or aphorism that has actually helped you in life. You don't even have to explain, but please give the source.

I have a couple more that I'll follow up with tomorrow.

natedogg