So you have no reason to misunderstand the noble, brave, and inspiring words you hear from people studying wisdom. But first, notice this important difference: a student of wisdom is not the same as someone who has already perfected wisdom. The student will tell you, "I talk about wonderful ideals, but I'm still struggling with countless problems. Don't expect me to live up to everything I say just yet. Right now I'm still working on myself, shaping my character, trying to reach the level of great examples I admire. If I ever manage to accomplish everything I've set out to do, then you can demand that my actions match my words."
You have, therefore, no grounds for misunderstanding the honourable, brave, and spirited language which you hear from those who are studying wisdom: and first of all observe this, that a student of wisdom is not the same thing as a man who has made himself perfect in wisdom. The former will say to you, "In my talk I express the most admirable sentiments, yet I am still weltering amid countless ills. You must not force me to act up to my rules: at the present time I am forming myself, moulding my character, and striving to rise myself to the height of a great example. If I should ever succeed in carrying out all that I have set myself to accomplish, you may then demand that my words and deeds should correspond,"