I never believed in trying to do anything. Whatever I set out to do I found I had already accomplished.

Must it ever be thus-that the source of our happiness must also be the fountain of our misery? The full and ardent sentiment which animated my heart with the love of nature, overwhelming me with a torrent of delight, and which brought all paradise before me, has now become an insupportable torment, a demon which perpetually pursues and harrasses me.

Hatred is a heavy burden. It sinks the heart deep in the breast, and lies like a tombstone on all joys.

Generosity wins favour for everyone, especially when it is accompanied by modesty.

Thank God when he oppresses you, and again when he releases you.

We don't get to know people when they come to us; we must go to them to find out what they are like.

Were the eye not of the sun, How could we behold the light? If God's might and ours were not as one, How could His work enchant our sight?