There is a universal element in man which he can assert by so acting as if the purpose of the Universe were also his purpose. It is the function of the supreme ordeals of life to develop in men this power, to give to their life this distinction, this height of dignity, these vast horizons.

By what sort of experience are we led to the conviction that spirit exists? On the whole, by searching, painful experience. The rose Religion grows on a thorn-bush, and we must not be afraid to have our fingers lacerated by the thorns if we would pluck the rose.

Dogma is the convictions of one man imposed authoritatively upon others.

No religion can long continue to maintain its purity when the church becomes the subservient vassal of the state

In order to join vigorously in the moral work of the world I must believe that somehow the best I can accomplish will endure, will leave its trace on things, will aid the final consummation.

Where the roots of private virtue are diseased, the fruit of public probity cannot but be corrupt.

The past speaks to us in a thousand voices, warning and comforting, animating and stirring to action.