Self-examination (n.) has one hard question: have you advanced in philosophy, or only in years?
Self-examination (n.) means playing prosecutor first, then judge, and only last the lawyer pleading for mercy.
Self-examination (n.) is what nobody practises, and that is what ruins our characters: we plan the future and never review the past it rests on.
Self-examination (n.) is what we lack, and the lack makes us wicked: no one looks back over his own life, though our plans for the future always depend on the past.
Self-examination (n.) is a daily trial: summon the mind each evening to give an account of itself, and anger will cool, knowing it must come before a judge.
Self-examination (n.) is calling yourself to account each night: did you keep your principles, break a habit, refuse a desire?
Self-examination (n.) at bedtime — what fault have I cured today? — is the cure for anger: whoever must face himself as judge each night grows mild.