The objects of this primary education. . . would be. . . to form the statesmen, legislators and judges, on whom public prosperity and individual happiness are so much to depend.
Zeal is fit for wise men, but flourishes chiefly among fools.
Ignorance and inconsideration are the two great causes of the ruin of mankind.
A good word is an easy obligation; but not to speak ill requires only our silence, which costs us nothing.
Men expect that religion should cost them no pains, that happiness should drop into their laps without any design and endeavor on their part, and that, after they have done what they please while they live, God should snatch them up to heaven when they die. But though the commandments of God be not grievous, yet it is fit to let men know that they are not thus easy.
When we have practiced good actions awhile, they become easy; when they are easy, we take pleasure in them; when they please us, we do them frequently; and then, by frequency of act, they grow into a habit.
Of all parts of wisdom the practice is the best.
You cannot intellectualize God, you cannot, He is beyond your intellect, you cannot understand Him through your intellect. If you have to understand Him you have to become the spirit.
Everyone deserves compassion.
The truth is hidden from us. Even if a mere piece of luck brings us straight to it, we shall have no grounded conviction of our success; there are so many similar objects, all claiming to be the real thing.
The rain wasn't the usual glittering silver, but dark and dirty, as if nature were a scrubwoman wringing out a filthy mop.