“Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take us over, it drives compassion right out of our hearts.”

“Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

“I would rather feel compassion than know the meaning of it. I would hope to act with compassion without thinking of personal gain.”

“Obedience unites us so closely to God that it in a way transforms us into Him, so that we have no other will but His.If obedience is lacking, even prayer cannot be pleasing to God.”

“It is necessary for the perfection of human society that there should be men who devote their lives to contemplation.”

“The human mind may perceive truth only through thinking, as is clear from Augustine.”

“It is not theft, properly speaking, to take secretly and use another's property in a case of extreme need: because that which he takes for the support of his life becomes his own property by reason of that need”