Things have different qualities, and the soul different inclinations; for nothing is simple which is presented to the soul, and the soul never presents itself simply to any object. Hence it comes that we weep and laugh at the same thing.
Blaise PascalWe view things not only from different sides, but with different eyes; we have no wish to find them alike.
Blaise PascalTruth is so obscure in these times, and falsehood so established, that, unless we love the truth, we cannot know it.
Blaise PascalGenerally we are occupied either with the miseries which now we feel, or with those which threaten; and even when we see ourselves sufficiently secure from the approach of either, still fretfulness, though unwarranted by either present or expected affliction, fails not to spring up from the deep recesses of the heart, where its roots naturally grow, and to fill the soul with its poison.
Blaise Pascal