Neither fear nor self-interest can convert the soul. They may change the appearance, perhaps even the conduct, but never the object of supreme desire... Fear is the motive which constrains the slave; greed binds the selfish man, by which he is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed (James 1:14). But neither fear nor self-interest is undefiled, nor can they convert the soul. Only charity can convert the soul, freeing it from unworthy motives.

How beautiful then is modesty and what a gem among virtues it is.

Prayer is a wine which makes glad the heart of man

Understanding is the sure and clear knowledge of some invisible thing.

If you would know whether you have made a good confession, ask yourself I you have resolved to abandon your sins.

I have no other masters than the beeches and the oaks.

Believe one who has tried, you shall find a fuller satisfaction in the woods than in the books. The trees and the rocks will teach you that which you cannot hear from the masters.