The one resolution, which was in my mind long before it took the form of a resolution, is the key-note of my life. It is this, always to regard as mere impertinences of fate the handicaps which were placed upon my life almost at the beginning. I resolved that they should not crush or dwarf my soul, but rather be made to blossom, like Aaron's rod, with flowers.

Now, however, I see the folly of attempting to hitch one's wagon to a star with a harness that does not belong to it.

To me a lush carpet of pine needles or spongy grass is more welcome than the most luxurious Persian rug.

A happy life consists not in the absence, but in the mastery of hardships.

There is a dangerous optimism of ignorance and indifference.

Many persons have a wrong idea of what constitutes true happiness. It is not attained through self-gratification but through fidelity to a worthy purpose.

The only real blind person at Christmas time is he who has not Christmas in his heart.