Paula Brackston Quotes

fear it is written somewhere in the terms of my parental contract: Fret frequently about well-being of offspring.

Must we always bedeck ourselves in prettiness to be thought pleasing? It would appear so. A woman must look a certain way to be worthy of a man’s attentions. It is expected.

She needs the hand of friendship extended. Are we not all of us, at some time or another, dependent on the kindness of others? Would we not wish someone to act selflessly for our sake?

Reputation is for those who can afford it.

If you are not able to travel, he told me, the next best thing is to read. Read all you can, girl. And store up that knowledge, for you never know when you will need it.

there is no courage in being fearless. Do you not know that? A person who knows fear and yet can still think of others, well, he be a brave man.

Knowledge cannot be unknown. Experience cannot be unlived.

what can be imagined can be brought into being.

Many in Batchcombe have suffered greatly, William. They look for someone to blame. It was my mother who made me see that.” She hesitated, then added, “People fear what they cannot explain.

Faith requires no proof. No evidence. No explanation. Faith is entirely a matter of trust and belief. We cannot know, we can only believe.

My mind is like the willow; it flexes and springs. My heart is a knot of oak. Let them try to wound me.

Nevertheless, disease and misfortune knew no social bounds. Nor did the immensely dangerous business of childbirth

Poverty has a way of taking the edge off principles. Hunger can blunt them altogether

We are each mistresses of our own happiness. We ought not to look to others to supply it.

Better foolish and honest than clever and false.