Few have abilities so much ...

Few have abilities so much needed by the rest of the world as to be caressed on their own terms; and he that will not condescend to recommend himself by external embellishments must submit to the fate of just sentiment meanly expressed, and be ridiculed and forgotten before he is understood.
Few have abilities so much needed by the rest of the world as to be caressed on their own terms; and he that will not condescend to recommend himself by external embellishments must submit to the fate of just sentiment meanly expressed, and be ridiculed and forgotten before he is understood.
 Samuel Johnson

Quotes from the same author

If a man does not make new acquaintances as he advances through life, he will soon find himself left alone. A man, sir, should keep his friendship in a constant repair.
 See image
 Samuel Johnson
To keep your secret is wisdom; but to expect others to keep it is folly.
 See image
 Samuel Johnson
Love is the wisdom of the fool and the folly of the wise.
 See image
 Samuel Johnson
Memory is the mother of all wisdom.
 See image
 Samuel Johnson
Friendship, like love, is destroyed by long absence, though it may be increased by short intermissions.
 See image
 Samuel Johnson