In order to learn true humility (I use this expression to describe the state of mind under discussion), it is good for a person to withdraw from the turmoil of the world (we see that Christ withdrew when the people wanted to proclaim him king as well as when he had to walk the thorny path), for in life either the depressing or the elevating impression is too dominant for a true balance to come about. Here, of course, individuality is very decisive.

...there is one thing that all Satan's cunning and all the snares of temptation cannot take by surprise - an undivided will.

Our age is essentially one of understanding and reflection, without passion, momentarily bursting into enthusiasm and shrewdly relapsing into repose.

During the first period of a man's life the greatest danger is not to take the risk.

People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.

Comparison is the most dangerous acquaintance love can make.

I have only one friend, and that is echo. Why is it my friend? Because I love my sorrow, and echo does not take it away from me. I have only one confidant, and that is the silence of night. Why is it my confidant? Because it remains silent.