Ignorance is the Mother of Devotion.

Tobacco, divine, rare, superexcellent tobacco, which goes far beyond all the panaceas, potable gold, and philosophers stones, a sovereign remedy to all diseases but as it is commonly abused by most men, which take it as tinkers do ale, 'Tis a plague, a mischief, a violent purger of goods, lands, health; hellish, devilish and damned tobacco, the ruin and overthrow of body and soul.

No one seriously doubts Socrates' maxim: The unexamined life isn't worth living. Self-assessment and attempts at self-improvement are essential aspects of "the good life." Yes, we should engage in ruthless self-reflection and harsh scrutiny, but we should simultaneously acknowledge that such introspection will, at best, only result in a partial view of our minds at work. Complete objectivity is not an option.

Our mental limitations prevent us from accepting our mental limitations.

Ignorance is the Mother of Devotion.

Hope and patience are two sovereign remedies for all, the surest reposals, the softest cushions to lean on in adversity.

Temperance is a bridle of gold; he, who uses it rightly, is more like a god than a man.