Francis of Assisi

"Perfect joy is found not in the absence of suffering, but in bearing it for love of Christ."

"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still function."

"I came to know God through creatures. In them all, I see reflections of eternal truth."

"What we have chosen to do echoes into eternity, whether it be great or small."

"The powerful will never allow those they oppress to become educated, for knowledge brings freedom."

"Courtesy is one of the qualities most beloved by God. I pray you, practice it without ceasing."

"You cannot steal my joy, for it resides in my soul, not in my possessions."

"Every creature is a mirror in which God beholds himself."

"Blessed are the ears that hear the call of their Master and do not delay."

"The beauty of creation never grows old, for each sunrise is wholly new."

"I have often thought that if all earthly things pass away, why do I cling to any of them?"

"A single act of obedience is worth more than a thousand hours of prayer without devotion."

"Humility is the foundation of all virtues, and without it, none can stand."

"To understand others, you must first understand yourself. To forgive others, you must first forgive yourself."

"The greatest poverty is not the lack of food, but the lack of purpose."

"Love all creatures, for in them you love God, for all creatures are of God."

"What we seek out of doors is already within us, waiting to be discovered."

"The wound is the place where the Light enters you."

"Above all, let us love one another. This is the highest law and the greatest wisdom."

"Brothers and sisters! You have been called to great things. Do not falter in your resolve."

"The greatest prayer is not words, but deeds done in love."

"In the midst of winter, I found within myself an invincible summer."

"Let us be honest: few ever truly understand the depth of Christ's love unless they have suffered greatly."

"The pursuit of knowledge without the development of character leads only to ruin."

"Blessed are those who see the hand of God in all things, for they see truly."

"I would rather have one man work out of love than ten men work out of fear."

"The contemplation of God's works fills the soul with joy inexpressible."

"We are called not to comfort, but to truth. Not to pleasure, but to purpose."

"Every moment is a choice between fear and love. Choose wisely."

"The smallest act of kindness done with a pure heart is worth more than the grandest gesture done with pride."