There is a condition or circumstance that has a greater bearing upon the happiness of life than any other. What is it? Something to do; some congenial work. Take away the occupation of all people and what a wretched world it would be.
How readily the bluebirds become our friends and neighbors when we offer them suitable nesting retreats!
Without death and decay, how could life go on?
I am in love with this world. It has been my home. It has been my point of outlook into the universe. I have never bruised myself against it nor tried to use it ignobly.
If you want to see birds, you must have birds in your heart.
The poor old earth which has mothered us and nursed us we treat with scant respect. Our awe and veneration we reserve for the worlds we know not of. Our senses sell us out. The mud on our shoes disenchants us.
I came from a race of fishers; trout streams gurgled about the roots of my family tree.
Few persons realize how much of their happiness, such as it is, is dependent upon their work.
Culture means the perfect and equal development of man on all sides.
Then, again, how annoying to be told it is only five miles to the next place when it is really eight or ten!
We are made strong by what we overcome.
Nature comes home to one most when one is at home. The stranger and traveler finds her a stranger and traveler also.
If the October days were a cordial like the sub-acids of fruit, these are a tonic like the wine of iron. Drink deep or be careful how you taste this December vintage. The first sip may chill, but a full draught warms and invigorates.
We have produced some good walkers and saunterers, and some noted climbers; but as a staple recreation, as a daily practice, the mass of the people dislike and despise walking.
O bluebird, welcome back again, Thy azure coat and ruddy vest, Are hues that April loveth best...
I think rain is as necessary to the mind as to vegetation. My very thoughts become thirsty, and crave the moisture.
One can only learn his powers of action by action, and his powers of thought by thinking.
Literature is an investment of genius which has dividends to all subsequent times.
I still find each day too short...
I was born with a chronic anxiety about the weather.