150 Quotes by John Lancaster Spalding

Each forward step we take we leave some phantom of ourselves behind.

As memory may be a paradise from which we cannot be driven, it may also be a hell from which we cannot escape.

Insight makes argument ridiculous.

States of soul rightly expressed, as the poet expresses them in moments of pure inspiration, retain forever the power of creating like states. It is this that makes genuine literature a vital force.

A Wise man knows that much of what he says and does is commonplace and trivial. His thoughts are not all solemn and sacred in his own eyes. He is able to laugh at himself and is not offended when others make him a subject whereon to exercise their wit.

The power of free will is developed and confirmed by increasing the number of worthy motives which influence conduct.

Few know the joys that spring from a disinterested curiosity. It is like a cheerful spirit that leads us through worlds filled with what is true and fair, which we admire and love because it is true and fair.

It is difficult to be sure of our friends, but it is possible to be certain of our loyalty to them.

Base thy life on principle, not on rules.