Dignity

When provoked by insults or foolish talk, keep your dignity.
Flies cannot disturb calm water unless you let them.
If a lesser man shouts, answer him with silence or measured words.
To join his fury makes you his equal in folly.
Know your worth, and do not lower yourself to wrestle in mud.
There is strength in restraint: like an elephant beset by dogs, simply move on unmoved.
All will see who is noble and who is the fool.
In time, your composure will earn respect, while his fire burns to ash.