This shows that Alex Cross is a very intelligent man and sees what fools or psychos might not see. Things like clues and really reading between the lines.   Example:  When ever he thinks, he always explores to find the answer.

A penny saved is a penny gained.
         Scottish Proverb

This shows  that Alex is a cautious man and likes to make money.   Living in Washington southeast he is not a rich man, but gives his kids and grandmother what they need. Example:  He does not live in a fancy house but lives in a suitable one.

A wise man hears one word and understands two.
         Yiddish Proverb

This shows Alex can really read between the lines about different things and can relate to different clues. Example:  When he goes to the victims or killers house he always searches for the unsearchable.

A wise man makes his own decisions, an ignorant man follows the public opinion.
         Chinese Proverb

This shows Alex tells what he thinks and is not afraid to uses his voice.  In all the books alex has always gotten his point across whether it be with the president or his best friend. Example: In “Jack and Jill”  He tells the president to take caution.

Look before you leap.
 John Heywood "The Proverbs of John Heywood" (1546)

This shows even though Alex takes risks he still is cautious. Alex is one of those guys who is daring and yet always thinks of the family first.   Example: He always picks up his gun when he answers the door.

For better is a little loss, than a long sorrow
 Langland, Piers Plowman.  Passus i, l.195.

This shows that when bad things happen, Alex is still positive. He has come across some pretty depressing things that would brake a normal guy, but not alex his personality comes with lots of courage. Example:  When someone dies.