Whatever the scientists may say, if we take the supernatural out of life, we leave only the unnatural. There are no little events in life, those we think of no consequence may be full of fate, and it is at our own risk if we neglect the acquaintances and opportunities that seem to be casually offered, and of small importance. The great difference between voyages rests not with the ships, but with the people you meet on them. Spiritual favors are not always to be looked for, and not always to be relied on. Solitude is such a potential thing. We hear voices in solitude, we never hear in the hurry and turmoil of life; we receive counsels and comforts, we get under no other condition . . . Old age is the verdict of life. Kindness is always fashionable. It is always the simple that produces the marvelous. Events that are predestined require but little management. They manage themselves. They slip into place while we sleep, and suddenly we are aware that the thing we fear to attempt, is already accomplished. |