The readiest way which God takes to draw a man to himself is, to afflict him in that he loves most, and with good reason; and to cause this affliction to arise from some good action done with a single eye; because nothing can more clearly show him the emptiness of what is most lovely and desirable in the world.

When you set yourself on fire, people love to come and see you burn.

He who governed the world before I was born shall take care of it likewise when I am dead. My part is to improve the present moment.

It cannot be that the people should grow in grace unless they give themselves to reading. A reading people will always be a knowing people.

God does nothing but by prayer, and everything with it.

Do no harm. Do good. Stay in love with God.

On every occasion of uneasiness, we should retire to prayer, that we may give place to the grace and light of God and then form our resolutions, without being in any pain about what success they may have. In the greatest temptations, a single look to Christ, and the barely pronouncing his name, suffices to overcome the wicked one, so it be done with confidence and calmness of spirit.