The greatness of man is so evident that it is even proved by his wretchedness. For what in animals is nature, we call in man wretchedness--by which we recognize that, his nature being now like that of animals, he has fallen from a better nature which once was his.

Time heals griefs and quarrels, for we change and are no longer the same persons. Neither the offender nor the offended are any more themselves.

Is it courage in a dying man to go, in weakness and in agony, to affront an almighty and eternal God?

We are only falsehood, duplicity, contradiction; we both conceal and disguise ourselves from ourselves.

When we wish to correct with advantage, and to show another that he errs, we must notice from what side he views the matter, for on that side it is usually true.

Those are weaklings who know the truth and uphold it as long as it suits their purpose, and then abandon it.

Human beings must be known to be loved; but Divine beings must be loved to be known.