My father is maestro at the Metropolitan church, which gives me an opportunity to write for the church as much as I please.

I thank my God for graciously granting me the opportunity of learning that death is the key which unlocks the door to our true happiness.

Believe me, I do not like idleness but work.

I cannot write poetically, for I am no poet. I cannot make fine artistic phrases that cast light and shadow, for I am no painter. I can neither by signs nor by pantomime express my thoughts and feelings, for I am no dancer; but I can by tones, for I am a musician.

Just as people behave to me, so do I behave to them. When I see that a person despises me and treats me with contempt, I can be as proud as any peacock.

It is a great consolation for me to remember that the Lord, to whom I had drawn near in humble and child-like faith, has suffered and died for me, and that He will look on me in love and compassion.