It is better to look on in wonder and remain silent at the sight of so many and such incomparable acts of kindness (V:263).

Life is short; its end is soon in view and God's judgment is fearsome to those leaving this life, of whom it is said: "They have not fulfilled their obligations; that is why the Lord has placed them among those who commit iniquity” (V:257).

We must not toy with promising things to God and then failing to keep our word to Him (V:256).

If the glory of the world is nothing but smoke, the contrary is solid good, when it is accepted in the right way (V:231).

God's divine goodness is merciful to us when it pleases Him to allow us to encounter blame and public contempt (V:230).

Life is short, the reward is great (V:220).

Nature makes trees put down deep roots before having to bear fruit, and even this is done gradually (V:219).

Our Lord is pleased to deprive us of temporal good; may it please His Divine goodness to give us spiritual ones (V:217).

Act like those good pilots who, finding themselves tossed about by the storm, redouble their courage and turn the prow of their ships against the most furious waves of the sea, which seem to rise to engulf them (V:211).

I cannot restrain myself and must tell you quite simply that this gives me renewed, greater desires to be able, in the midst of my petty infirmities, to go and finish my life near a bush, working in some village. I think I would be very happy to do so, if God were...