Pen would pray to his God for guidance, but he never did get any back when he did that, so he supposed he must use his own judgment. - Lois McMaster Bujold

She made the best of herself through tidiness and health, not by the unearned gift that’s the blessing and curse of those born beautiful.

So you’re saying that I could die at any moment!” “Yes. And this is different from your life yesterday in what way?

"He wanted to know what I saw in you. I told him..." he paused again, and then continued almost shyly, "that you poured out honor like a fountain, all around you."

"That's weird. I don't feel full of honor, or anything else, except maybe confusion."

"Naturally not. Fountains keep nothing for themselves."