We are told that talent creates its own opportunities. But it sometimes seems that intense desire creates not only its own opportunities, but its own talents.

Fear comes from uncertainty. When we are absolutely certain, whether of our worth or worthlessness, we are almost impervious to fear. Thus a feeling of utter unworthiness can be a source of courage.

Social improvement is attained more readily by a concern with the quality of results than with the purity of motives.

To lose one's life is but to lose the present; and, clearly, to lose a defiled, worthless present is not to lose much.

There is always a chance that he who sets himself up as his brother's keeper will end up by being his jail-keeper.

Nothing comes easily. My work smells of sweat.

We can be absolutely certain only about things we do not understand.