The root of sanctity is sanity. A man must be healthy before he can be holy. We bathe first, and then perfume.
Sophie SwetchineRespect is a serious thing in him who feels it, and the height of honor for him who inspires the feeling.
Sophie SwetchineLove enters the heart unawares: takes precedence of all the emotions--or, at least, will be second to none--and even reflection becomes its accomplice. While it lives, it renders blind; and when it has struck its roots deep only itself can shake them. It reminds one of hospitality as practiced among the ancients. The stranger was received upon the threshold of the half-open door, and introduced into the sanctuary reserved for the Penates. Not until every attention had been lavished upon him did the host ask his name; and the question was sometimes deferred till the very moment of departure.
Sophie Swetchine