Profound sincerity is the only basis of talent as of character.

It was high counsel that I once heard given to a young person, 'always do what you are afraid to do.'

Every man's Reason is sufficient for his guidance, if used.

We do not want actions, but men; not a chemical drop of water, but rain; the spirit that sheds and showers actions, countless, endless actions.

I suppose an entire cabinet of shells would be an expression of the whole human mind; a Flora of the whole globe would be so likewise, or a history of beasts; or a painting of all the aspects of the clouds. Everything is significant.

The true scholar grudges every opportunity of action passed, by, as a loss of power.

It is easy to live for others, everybody does. I call on you to live for yourself.