Tirukural

CHAPTER 62

Perseverance

611

Never say in weakness, “This task is too difficult.” Perseverance will confer the ability to accomplish it.§

612

Beware of leaving any work undone, remembering that the world abandons those who abandon their work unfinished.§

613

The pride of profuse giving dwells only with the dignity of diligent effort.§

614

Like the swordsmanship of an effeminate man, the philanthropy of those who avoid hard work will end in failure.§

615

Standing like a pillar, he who prefers work to pleasure supports his family and sweeps away their every sad sorrow.§

616

Perseverance generates prosperity, and the lack of it engenders poverty.§

617

They say the black ogress called Misfortune lurks in laziness, while Goddess Fortune lingers in the laboring toils of active men.§

618

To be destitute of good fortune is no one’s disgrace, but shame belongs to those devoid of wisdom and tenacity.§

619

Though destiny decrees that one’s deeds will fail, the wages for determined work are always paid.§

620

Those who strive with tireless exertion and remain undaunted will live to behold the backside of retreating Fate.§