The sky was lit by the splendor of the moon
So powerful I fell to the ground 
Your love has made me sure 
I am ready to forsake this worldly life
and surrender to the magnificence of your Being

How could you reach the pearl by only looking at the sea? If you seek the pearl, be a diver: the diver needs several qualities: he must trust his rope and his life to the Friend’s hand, he must stop breathing, and he must jump.

Good character is more to be praised than outstanding talent. Most talents to some extent are a gift. Good character by contrast is not given to us, we have to build it piece by piece, by thought, choice, courage and determination.

Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you. Love me and I may be forced to love you.

Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.