Every time a new nation, America or Russia for instance, advances toward civilization, the human race perfects itself; every time an inferior class emerges from enslavement and degradation, the human race again perfects itself.

a perfect piece of architecture kindles that aimless reverie, which bears the soul we know not whither.

A religious life is a struggle and not a hymn.

The mystery of existence is the connection between our faults and our misfortunes.

The language of religion can alone suit every situation and every mode of feeling.

the last steps of life are ever slow and difficult.

It is not enough to forgive; one must forget.