Those few members who desert the cause are abandoning an oasis to search for water in the desert.
Consider that the devil doesn't sleep, but seeks our ruin in a thousand ways.
Do not lose heart, even if you should discover that you lack qualities necessary for the work to which you are called. He who called you will not desert you, but the moment you are in need he will stretch out his saving hand.
You will accomplish more by kind words and a courteous manner than by anger or sharp rebuke, which should never be used except in necessity.
Reflect that in reality you have a greater need to serve [the poor] than they have of your service.
Strive to be faithful to that which God has called you.
Beware of trying to accomplish anything by force.
The past did affect the present and the future, in ways you could see and a million ones you couldn't. Time wasn't a thing you could divide easily; there was no defined middle or beginning or end. I could pretend to leave the past behind, but it would not leave me.
I arise from dreams of thee, And a spirit in my feet Has led me- who knows how? To thy chamber-window, Sweet!
you shall tie the marriage knot with the ropemaker's daughter and the cawing of the crows will be your wedding song.
My life flies away like a dream: Why should I stay behind?