“The existence of relative truth does not prove the non-existence of universal truth.”

“Almost every day I am reminded of Saadi's reflection that there is no senseless tyranny like that of subordinates.”

“Causes: As important a fact as any individual cause on earth is the vital incapacity of the human individual to distinguish between genuine cause and one which is foisted upon him by pressure, envi...”

“You say that this society will come to an end, because societies always have done so. I wonder whether they have ended because they were not really societies at all.”

“Presence and AbsenceA certain person may have, as you say, a wonderful presence: I do not know. What I do know is that he has a perfectly delightful absence.”

“EXPECTATION If, from time to time, you give up expectation, you will be able to perceive what it is you are getting.”

“Enemies are often former or potential friends who have been denied - or think that they have been denied - something.”

“Ive had many enemies over the years. If theres one thing Ive learned, its never engage in a fight youre sure to lose. On the other hand, never let anyone who has insulted you get away with it. Bide...”

“Life is my greatest enemy.”

“A teachable spirit and a humbleness to admit your ignorance or your mistake will save you a lot of pain. However, if you're a person who knows it all, then you've got a lot of heavy-hearted experie...”

“When I say it's you I like, I'm talking about that part of you that knows that life is far more than anything you can ever see or hear or touch. That deep part of you that allows you to stand for t...”

“You know Balbec so well - do you have friends in the area?'I have friends wherever there are companies of trees, wounded but not vanquished, which huddle together with touching obstinacy to implore...”

“Things that matter are not easy. Feelings of happiness are easy. Happiness is not. Flirting is easy. Love is not. Saying youre friends is easy. Being friends is not.”