The difference between more or less intelligent men is like the difference between criminals condemned to life imprisonment in smaller or larger cells. The intelligent man who is proud of his intelligence is like a condemned man who is proud of his large cell.

I would suggest that barbarism be considered as a permanent and universal human characteristic which becomes more or less pronounced according to the play of circumstances.

We must not wish for the disappearance of our troubles but for the grace to transform them.

Liberty, taking the word in its concrete sense, consists in the ability to choose.

Attachment is the great fabricator of illusions; reality can be attained only by someone who is detached.

Renunciation is submission to time.

Every perfect life is a parable invented by God.