Good books, like good friends, are few and chosen; the more select, the more enjoyable.

Persuasive influences are better than any amount of moralizing.

I don't pretend to be wise, but I am observing, and I see a great deal more than you'd imagine. I'm interested in other people's experiences and inconsistencies, and, though I can't explain, I remember and use them for my own benefit.

Beth could not reason upon or explain the faith that gave her courage and patience to give up life, and cheerfully wait for death. Like a confiding child, she asked no questions, but left everything to God and nature, Father and Mother of us all, feeling sure that they, and they only, could teach and strengthen heart and spirit for this life and the life to come.

But please hug and kiss me, everyone, and don't mind my dress, I want a great many crumples of this sort put into it today.

Nothing remained but loneliness and grief.

Every house needs a grandmother in it.