If neither animal nor vegetable you be, then mineral you are.
More Japanese Proverbs:
An ant's nest could bring down a hill.Japanese
He who is too servile ruins his back.
Japanese
Never rely on the glory of the morning nor the smiles of your mother-in-law.
Japanese
Walls have ears, paper sliding doors have eyes.
Japanese
If you turn into a dog, be sure to choose a rich family.
Japanese
It is a beggar's pride that he is not a thief.
Japanese