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I think that there is nothing, not even crime, more opposed to poetry, to philosophy, ay, to life itself than this incessant business.

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Most of the luxuries and many of the so-called comforts of life are not only not indispensable, but positive hindrances to the elevation of mankind.

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It is characteristic of wisdom not to do desperate things.

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There is no value in life except what you choose to place upon it and no happiness in any place except what you bring to it yourself.

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What is called genius is the abundance of life and health.

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Every creature is better alive than dead, men and moose and pine trees, and he who understands it aright will rather preserve its life than destroy it...more

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The youth gets together his materials to build a bridge to the moon, or, perchance, a palace or temple on the earth, and, at length, the middle-aged m...more

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Silence is the universal refuge, the sequel to all dull discourses and all foolish acts, a balm to our every chagrin, as welcome after satiety as afte...more

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Live your life, do your work, then take your hat.

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I suppose that I have not many months to live: but of course I know nothing about it. I may add that I am enjoying existence as much as ever, and regr...more

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A broad margin of leisure is as beautiful in a man's life as in a book. Haste makes waste, no less in life than in housekeeping. Keep the time, observ...more

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It is not enough to be busy so are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?

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It is not worth the while to let our imperfections disturb us always.

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I do believe in simplicity. It is astonishing as well as sad, how many trivial affairs even the wisest thinks he must attend to in a day; how singular...more

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A wise man will know what game to play to-day, and play it. We must not be governed by rigid rules, as by the almanac, but let the season rule us. The...more