Aphorisms

Benjamin Franklin was responsible for the Poor Richard's Almanac, which was a compiling of aphorisms. An aphorism is a witty way to state a wise saying. His almanac was a hit, everyone appreciated the advice and information it held.

A small selection of the aphorisms found in the book:

• Keep thy shop, and thy shop will keep thee.
• This is regarding the virtue of order, if you keep your work and your life in place and neat they will improve and help you in return. 
• Have you somewhat to do tomorrow, do it today.
• This is regarding the virtue of industry, keeping ahead of your tasks and getting your work done quickly will help in the long run.
• The rotten apple spoils his companions. 
• This can be taken two ways, first to avoid people who are "rotten apples", the second to not be that "rotten apple" that spoils his companions. I consider this to follow the virtue of humility, try to be a good friend and not ruin those around you. 

(LearnNC.org)

http://www.learnnc.org/lp/media/uploads/2008/06/poor_richard_1759_feb.jpg

Information gained through an excerpt of Benjamin Franklin's Poor Richard's Almanac