We live in a world of transgressions and selfishness, and no pictures that represent us otherwise can be true, though, happily, for human nature, gleamings of that pure spirit in whose likeness man has been fashioned are to be seen, relieving its deformities, and mitigating if not excusing its crimes.
~
The Deerslayer
by
James Fenimore Cooper
Methinks that what they call my shadow here on earth is my true substance. Methinks that in looking at things spiritual, we are too much like oysters observing the sun through the water, and thinking that thick water the thinnest of air.
~
Moby Dick
by
Herman Melville
His sanguine spirit turns every firefly into a star.
~
The Parasite
by
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Beth could not reason upon or explain the faith that gave her courage and patience to give up life, and cheerfully wait for death. Like a confiding child, she asked no questions, but left everything to God and nature, Father and Mother of us all, feeling sure that they, and they only, could teach and strengthen heart and spirit for this life and the life to come.
~
Little Women
by
Louisa May Alcott
So complex is the human spirit that it can itself scarce discern the deep springs which impel it to action.
~
The White Company
by
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle