Some people praised Imam Ali on his face. He replied, "Allah knows me very well and I 
also know myself more than you. Please, Lord ! make me better than what they imagine me to 
be and please excuse those Weaknesses of mine which they are not aware of". 
To secure for you fame, credit as well as blessings, the help that you give to men in need, 
should possess the following attributes: whatever its extent, it should be considered by you as 
trifling so that it may be granted a high status; it should be given secretly, Allah will manifest 
it; and it must be given immediately so that it becomes pleasant.