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.

Therefore, a man ought to root himself so firmly in God that he will not need the consolations of men.

If you cast away one cross, you will certainly find another, and perhaps a heavier.

Bodily exercises are to be done discreetly; not to be taken evenly and alike by all men.

Do not interfere when your opinion is not sought.

Endeavor to be patient in bearing with the defects and infirmities of others, of what sort 'soever they be; for that thyself also has many failings which must be borned with by others.

When anger enters the mind, wisdom departs.