We seldom think of what we have but always of what we lack. Therefore, rather than grateful, we are bitter.

With health, everything is a source of pleasure; without it, nothing else, whatever it may be, is enjoyable...Healt h is by far the most important element in human happiness.

there are very few who can think, but every man wants to have an opinion; and what remains but to take it ready-made from others, instead of forming opinions for himself?

Honor means that a man is not exceptional; fame, that he is.

There is not much to be got anywhere in the world. It is filled with misery and pain; if a man escapes these, boredeom lies in wait for him at every corner. Nay more; it is evil which generally has the upper hand, and folly that makes the most noise. Fate is cruel and mankind pitiable.

Boredom is just the reverse side of fascination.

It is the courage to make a clean breast of it in the face of every question that makes the philosopher.