proverbs故事

Not much English proverbs could be traced the history back that they're not like Chinese proverbs. Even if the native English speaking foreigner, probably they can't tell you the history neither. Here I can only explain it a bit more with some examples.

A contented mind is a perpetual feast. = 知足常樂
Definition: If you are mentally at peace, you will always feel that you have enough of everything, and will not have to strive to get more.
Eg.: Jill: Lillian doesn't make very much money, but she seems to be happy all the time. I wonder how she manages that? Jane: A contented mind is a perpetual feast.

A happy heart makes a blooming visage. The proper proverb should be:
A blithe heart makes a blooming visage. = 人逢喜事精神爽
Definition: Happy people can smile happily.
Eg.: Look at you Jane, a happy heart makes a blooming visage. You look gorgeous since Peter purposed you.

A man is known by the company he keeps. = 觀其友，知其人。
Definition: Our character is reflected in our choice of friends.
Eg.: Mary: Ryan stole my phone. I am so disappointed in him! Grace: A man is known by the company he keeps. You should know it earlier from his friends. They are all gangsters!

A stitch in time saves nine. = 及時行事，事半功倍。
Definition: Complete a job sooner rather than later, to prevent the task from becoming a bigger job than it has to be.
Eg.: Kate: Do you know there will be a History quiz after the Science quiz. I don't even study Science yet! Henry: Yes. A stitch in time saves nine. I had already studied Science for the quiz, so now I have time for History.

A word spoken is an arrow let fly. 一言既出，駟馬難追。
Definition: Once you said something you can't get it back. So be careful before you speak.
Eg.: Robert: I asked my girlfriend for breaking up while a stupid argument with her. I didn't mean it. Now she's gone and I regret. Alex: A word spoken is an arrow let fly. You can't do anything besides begging her to come back now.