It is a maxim that no man was ever enslaved by influence while he was fit to be free.
Samuel JohnsonHow small of all that human hearts endure, That part which laws or kings can cause or cure! Still to ourselves in every place consigned, Our own felicity we make or find. With secret course, which no loud storms annoy, Glides the smooth current of domestic joy.
Samuel JohnsonEvery man has some favorite topic of conversation, on which, by a feigned seriousness of attention, he may be drawn to expatiate without end.
Samuel JohnsonThose who are in the power of evil habits must conquer them as they can; and conquered they must be, or neither wisdom nor happiness can be attained: but those who are not yet subject to their influence may, by timely caution, preserve their freedom.
Samuel Johnson