Taste is only to be educated by contemplation, not of the tolerably good but of the truly excellent. I therefore show you only the best works; and when you are grounded in these, you will have a standard for the rest, which you will know how to value, without overrating them.

It is unpleasant to miss even the most trifling thing to which we have been accustomed.

I hate every violent overthrow, because as much is destroyed as is gained by it.

Sowing is not as difficult as reaping.

A man should hear a little music, read a little poetry, and see a fine picture every day of his life, in order that worldly cares may not obliterate the sense of the beautiful which God has implanted in the human soul.

Truth is a torch but a tremendous one. That is why we hurry past it, shielding our eyes, indeed, in fear of getting burned.

Thank God when He lays a burden on thee, and thank Him when He takes it off.