A disciple once complained, "You tell us stories, but you never reveal their meaning to us." The master replied, "How would you like it if someone offered you fruit and then chewed it up for you before giving it to you?" If your heart is straight with God, then every creature will be to you a mirror of life and a book of holy doctrine.

The intention which is fixed on God as its only end will keep people steady in their purposes, and deliver them from being the joke and scorn of fortune.

He who knows himself well is mean and abject in his own sight, and takes no delight in the vain praise of men.

The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid.

Judge yourself and beware of passing judgement on others. In judging others we expend our energy to no purpose; we are often mistaken and easily sin. But if we judge ourselves our labour is always to our profit.

First keep peace with yourself, then you can also bring peace to others.

Remember always your end, and that lost time does not return.