We do not live an equal life, but one of contrasts and patchwork; now a little joy, then a sorrow, now a sin, then a generous or brave action.
Ralph Waldo EmersonVigor is contagious, and whatever makes us either think or feel strongly adds to our power and enlarges our field of action.
Ralph Waldo EmersonPlato says that the punishment which the wise suffer who refuse to take part in the government, is, to live under the government of worse men; and the like regret is suggested to all the auditors, as the penalty of abstaining to speak,--that they shall hear worse orators than themselves.
Ralph Waldo Emerson