It is certain that I cannot always distinguish my own thoughts from those I read, because what I read becomes the very substance and text of my mind.

I have found life so beautiful.

I don't want to live in a hand -me -down world of others' experiences. I want to write about me, my discoveries, my fears, my feelings, about me.

I do not mean to object to a thorough knowledge of the famous works we read. I object only to the interminable comments and bewildering criticisms that teach but one thing: there are as many opinions as there are men.

No smile is as beautiful as the one that struggles through tears.

I have depended on books not only for pleasure and for the wisdom they bring to all who read, but also for that knowledge which comes to others through their eyes and their ears.

I do not like the world as it is; so I am trying to make it a little more as I want it.