So called pleasures, when they go beyond a certain limit, are but punishments.
What difference does it make how much you have? What you do not have amounts to much more.
Self-denial is the best riches.
Why do I not seek some real good; one which I could feel, not one which I could display?
There is more heroism in self-denial than in deeds of arms.
I know that nothing comes to pass but what God appoints; our fate is decreed, and things do not happen by chance, but every man's portion of joy and sorrow is predetermined.