If thou desire to profit, read with humility, simplicity, and faithfulness; nor even desire the repute of learning. - Thomas à Kempis

A pure, sincere, and stable spirit is not distracted though it be employed in many works; for that it works all to the honor of God, and inwardly being still and quiet, seeks not itself in any thing it doth.

There is no man in the world free from trouble or anguish, though he were King or Pope.

. . . dost thou seek for thyself rest and joy? Thou art wrong, thou art wrong, if thou seekest aught but to suffer tribulations, for this whole mortal life is full of miseries, and set round with crosses.