In controversy the instant we feel anger we have already ceased striving for truth, and have begun striving for ourselves.

~ Buddha

So, Ananda, you must be lamps unto yourselves. Rely on yourselves, and do not rely on external help. Hold firm to the truth as a lamp and a refuge, and do not look for refuge to anything besides yourselves. A brother becomes his own lamp and refuge by continually looking on his body, feelings, perceptions, moods, and ideas in such a manner that he conquers the cravings and depressions of ordinary men and is always strenuous, self-possessed, and collected in mind. Whoever among my disciples does this, either now or when I am dead, if he is anxious to learn, will reach the summit...

~ Buddha

[Digha Nikaya ii.99-100, Mahaparinibbana Suttanta

One of his students asked Buddha, "Are you the messiah?"
"No", answered Buddha.
"Then are you a healer?"
"No", Buddha replied.
"Then are you a teacher?" the student persisted.
"No, I am not a teacher."
"Then what are you?"
asked the student, exasperated.
"I am awake", Buddha replied.

The one who asks the question is mistaken
The one who answers it is mistaken.

~ Buddha

"As the bee takes the essence of a flower
and flies away without destroying
its beauty and perfume,
so let the sage wander in this life."
~ Buddha

Watchfulness is the path of immortality:
Unwatchfulness is the path of death.
Those who are watchful never die:
Those who do not watch are already as dead.

Those who with a clear mind have seen this truth,
Those who are wise and ever watchful,
They feel the joy of watchfulness,
The joy of the path of the great.

And those who in high thought and in deep contemplation
With ever living power advance on the path,
They in the end reach NIRVANA,
The peace supreme and infinite joy.

- The Dhammapada (trans. Mascaro)