Better have to give than have to beg.
More Portuguese Proverbs:
A good word quenches more than a cauldron of water.Portuguese
God helps them that help themselves.
Portuguese
There are ills that happen for good.
Portuguese
He is no great heir that inherits not his ancestor's virtues.
Portuguese
Love has no law.
Portuguese
I am on good terms with the friend who eats his bread with me.
Portuguese