Lord, defend me from my friends; I can account for my enemies

Lord, defend me from my friends; I can account for my enemies.

I ask you to judge me by the enemies I have made.

The enemies of your enemies are not always your friends, but they can still be useful.

Beware of no man more than of yourself; we carry our worst enemies within us.

You have enemies? Why, it is the story of every man who has done a great deed or created a new idea. It is the cloud which thunders around everything that shines. Fame must have enemies, as light must have gnats. Do no bother yourself about it; disdain. Keep your mind serene as you keep your life clear.