The memory represents to us not what we choose but what it pleases.

I listen with attention to the judgment of all men; but so far as I can remember, I have followed none but my own.

I have here only made a nosegay of culled flowers, and have brought nothing of my own but the thread that tied them together.

Other passions have objects to flatter them, and seem to content and satisfy them for a while; there is power in ambition, pleasure in luxury, and pelf in covetousness; but envy can gain nothing but vexation.

Every man has within himself the entire human condition

We have no participation in Being, because all human nature is ever midway between being born and dying, giving off only a vague image and shadow of itself, and a weak and uncertain opinion. And if you chance to fix your thoughts on trying to grasp its essence, it would be neither more nor less than if your tried to clutch water.

My business is only to keep myself in motion, whilst motion pleases me; I only walk for the walk's sake.