If I am worth anything later, I am worth something now. For wheat is wheat, even if people think it is a grass in the beginning.

Many people seem to think it foolish, even superstitious, to believe that the world could still change for the better. And it is true that in winter it is sometimes so bitingly cold that one is tempted to say, ‘What do I care if there is a summer; its warmth is no help to me now.’ Yes, evil often seems to surpass good. But then, in spite of us, and without our permission, there comes at last an end to the bitter frosts. One morning the wind turns, and there is a thaw. And so I must still have hope.

I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.

I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it.

For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me want to dream.

The fishermen know that the sea is dangerous and the storm terrible, but they have never found these dangers sufficient reason for remaining ashore