Patience is necessary in this life because so much of life is fraught with adversity. No matter how hard we try, our lives will never be without strife and grief. Thus, we should not strive for a peace that is without temptation, or for a life that never feels adversity. Peace is not found by escaping temptations, but by being tried by them. We will have discovered peace when we have been tried and come through the trial of temptation.

Simplicity is the intention, purity in the affection; simplicity turns to God, purity unites with and enjoys him.

Thou shalt ever joy at eventide if thou spend the day fruitfully.

Do not let your peace depend on the hearts of men; whatever they say about you, good or bad, you are not because of it another man, for as you are, you are.

Who has a harder fight than he who is striving to overcome himself.

Caution is crediting, and reserve in speaking, and in revealing one's self to but very few, are the best securities both of a good understanding with the world, and of the inward peace of our own minds.

If thou wilt receive profit, read with humility, simplicity and faith, and seek not at any time the fame of being learned.