Quotes from Thomas a Kempis

First keep peace with yourself, then you can also bring peace to others.

What difference does it make to you what someone else becomes, or says, or does? You do not need to answer for others, only for yourself.

If you bear the cross unwillingly, you make it a burden, and load yourself more heavily; but you must bear it.

If you cast away one cross, you will certainly find another, and perhaps a heavier.

It is thy duty oftentimes to do what thou wouldst not; thy duty, too, to leave undone that thou wouldst do.

And when he is out of sight, quickly also he is out of mind.

O how quickly passes away the glory of the earth.

For the multitude of worldly friends profiteth not, nor may strong helpers anything avail, nor wise counselors give profitable counsel, nor the cunning of doctors give consolation, nor riches deliver in time of need, nor a secret place to defend, if Thou, Lord, do not assist, help, comfort, counsel, inform, and defend.

What most of all hinders heavenly consolation is that you are too slow in turning yourself to prayer.

What else does anxiety about the future bring you but sorrow upon sorrow?

It is much safer to obey than to rule.

A humble knowledge of oneself is a surer road to God than a deep searching of the sciences.

Oh, how quickly the world's glory passes away.

Constantly choose rather to want less, than to have more.

When anger enters the mind, wisdom departs.

If we live in peace ourselves, we in turn may bring peace to others. A peaceable man does more good than a learned one.

It is no little wisdom for you to keep yourself in silence and in good peace when evil words are spoken to you, and to turn your heart to God and not to be troubled with the judgment of others.

To take no account of oneself, but always to think well and highly of others is the highest wisdom and perfection.

Occasions do not make a man either strong or weak but they show what he is.

The loftier the building, the deeper must the foundation be laid.

For a small reward, a man will hurry away on a long journey; while for eternal life, many will hardly take a single step.

All men commend patience, although few are willing to practice it.

There is no man in this world without some manner of tribulation or anguish, though he be king or pope.

Do not let your peace depend on the hearts of men; whatever they say about you, good or bad, you are not because of it another man, for as you are, you are.