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Monosticha Catonis

These words are written by Marcus Cato to his own sons, that he may instruct them in how to avoid the ways that many take, and instead to follow the moral path that brings one dignity, that they may believe these things and consider the esteem they will bring to your reputations, so that you may live with the greatest glory and achieve honors. Now, my dearest sons, I shall teach you the manner by which to well compose yourselves. Therefore read my precepts that you may understand, for to read and not understand would be to neglect me, your father.

Therefore pray to God.
Love your parents.
Show respect to your relatives.
Give fearful respect to your teacher.
Safeguard what is entrusted to you.
Prepare for the Forum.
Go about in the company of good people.
Do not approach before you are called.
Be clean.
Willingly greet others.
Concede to your superiors; be kind to your inferiors.
Keep your thought to yourself.
Preserve your modesty.
Apply yourself diligently.
Read books; remember what you read.
Care for your family and its reputation.
Be courteous.
Do not become angry over nothing.
Do not laugh at anyone.
Give in return for what you receive.
Be mindful of to whom you give.
In court stand by your friends.
Attend to your commanding officer.
Seldom entertain, or not too much.
Get enough sleep.
Keep your oath.
Be moderate in drinking wine.
Fight for your country.
Do not be gullible.
Give good counsel.
Flee from a prostitute.
Study literature.
Do not deceive others.
Be beneficial to good people.
Do not curse others.
Safeguard your good reputation.
Judge fairly.
Overcome your parent with patience.
Remember those from whom you receive favors.
Do not laugh at the misery of others (or ridicule the poor).
Be a good adviser.
Practice virtue.
Master your anger.
Play games for enjoyment; spurn games of chance.
Do not abuse your power and authority against anyone.
Do not be contemptuous of your inferiors.
Desire nothing of others.
Love your wife. Teach your children.
Abide by the rules you make yourself.
Speak little at a banquet.
Apply yourself to do that which is right and just.
Show your affections freely.
Do not misjudge.

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Monosticha Catonis