To a reasonable creature, that alone is insupportable which is unreasonable; but everything reasonable may be supported.

It is better to advise than upbraid, for the one corrects the erring; the other only convicts them.

No matter what happens, it is within my power to turn it to my advantage.

If virtue promises happiness, prosperity and peace, then progress in virtue is progress in each of these for to whatever point the perfection of anything brings us, progress is always an approach toward it.

These are the signs of a wise man: to reprove nobody, to praise nobody, to blame nobody, nor even to speak of himself or his own merits.

No great thing is created suddenly. There must be time. Give your best and always be kind.

What else can I do, a lame old man, but sing hymns to God? If I were a nightingale, I would do the nightingale's part; if I were a swan, I would do as a swan. But now I am a rational creature, and I ought to praise God. This is my work. I do it, nor will I desert my post, so long as I am allowed to keep it. And I ask you to join me in this same song.