Adversity is the first path to truth.

Adversity is the first path to truth.

Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.

Smooth seas do not make skillful sailors.

Sweet are the uses of adversity,
Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous,
Wears yet a precious read more

Sweet are the uses of adversity,
Which, like the toad, ugly and venomous,
Wears yet a precious jewel in his head;
And this our life, exempt from human haunt,
Finds tongues in trees, books in the running brooks,
Sermons in stones, and good in everything.

In all distresses of our friends
We first consult our private ends;
While Nature, kindly bent to read more

In all distresses of our friends
We first consult our private ends;
While Nature, kindly bent to ease us,
Points out some circumstance to please us.

. . . it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

. . . it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.

Prosperity is a great teacher; adversity is a greater. Possession pampers the mind; privation trains and strengthens it.

The Good are better made by Ill,
As odours crushed are sweeter still.

The Good are better made by Ill,
As odours crushed are sweeter still.

diamonds shine more brightly foiled by black velvet.

diamonds shine more brightly foiled by black velvet.

Friendship is a plant of slow growth and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is read more

Friendship is a plant of slow growth and must undergo and withstand the shocks of adversity before it is entitled to the appellation.