It is not by lying still in the dark and letting himself be gnawed that a man finds rest; but by watching over himself, and bravely bearing the strokes of existence.

It is not by spectacular achievements that man can be transformed, but by will. A small daily task, if it be really daily, will beat the labours of a spasmodic Hercules.

A man may take to drink on account of trouble, but he would be none the better for the drinking; whereas, if he takes to reading, he will become wise.