This proverb, which speaks to the importance of patience, diligence, and integrity, originated with the Renaissance master Michelangelo. According to legend, a friend paid a visit to Michelangelo’s studio, where there was a statue in progress. The renowned sculptor and painter explained that he had only made very small adjustments to the work since the last time the man visited. “But these are just trifles,” said the man. Yet to the artist, the seemingly minuscule edits were the necessary steps in achieving greatness.