There is a plain distinction to be made betwixt pleasure and happiness. For tho' there can be no happiness without pleasure--yet the converse of the proposition will not hold true.--We are so made, that from the common gratifications of our appetites, and the impressions of a thousand objects, we snatch the one, like a transient gleam, without being suffered to taste the other.
Laurence SterneBefore an affliction is digested, consolation ever comes too soon; and after it is digested, it comes too late.
Laurence SterneOne may as well be asleep as to read for anything but to improve his mind and morals, and regulate his conduct.
Laurence SterneIf thou art rich, then show the greatness of thy fortune; or what is better, the greatness of thy soul, in the meekness of thy conversation; condescend to men of low estate, support the distressed, and patronize the neglected. Be great.
Laurence SterneDisguise thyself as thou wilt, still, Slavery," said I, "still thou art a bitter draught.
Laurence SterneThere are a thousand unnoticed openings, continued my father, which let penetrating eye at once into a man's soul; and I maintain it, added he, that a man of sense does not lay down his hat in coming into a room, --or take it up in going out of it, but something escapes, which discovers him.
Laurence Sterne