Young people think they never can change, but they do in the most wonderful manner, and very few die of broken hearts.

Father asked us what was God's noblest work. Anna said men, but I said babies. Men are often bad, but babies never are.

We can't any of us do all we would like, but we can do our best for every case that comes to us, and that helps amazingly.

Jo's breath gave out here, and wrapping her head in the paper, she bedewed her little story with a few natural tears, for to be independent and earn the praise of those she loved were the dearest wishes of her heart, and this seemed to be the first step toward that happy end.

The duty we owe ourselves is greater than that we owe others.

Jo's eyes sparkled, for it's always pleasant to be believed in; and a friend's praise is always sweeter than a dozen newspaper puffs.

…often between ourselves and those nearest and dearest to us there exists a reserve which it is very hard to overcome.