The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man be perfected without trials.
Danish Proverb

Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune, but great minds rise above them.
Washington Irving

In prosperity, our friends know us; in adversity, we know our friends.
John Churton Collins

The more a man knows, the more he forgives.
Catherine the Great

After the game, the king and the pawn go into the same box.
Italian Proverb

Life is like a game of cards. The hand that is dealt you represents determinism; the way you play it is free will.
Jawaharal Nehru