As threshing separates the wheat from the chaff, so does affliction purify virtue.

As threshing separates the wheat from the chaff, so does affliction purify virtue.

To bear other people's afflictions, everyone has courage and enough to spare.

To bear other people's afflictions, everyone has courage and enough to spare.

Strength is born in the deep silence of long-suffering hearts; not amid joy.

Strength is born in the deep silence of long-suffering hearts; not amid joy.

Believe me, the gods spare the afflicted, and do not always
oppress those who are unfortunate.
[Lat., Crede read more

Believe me, the gods spare the afflicted, and do not always
oppress those who are unfortunate.
[Lat., Crede mihi, miseris coelestia numina parcunt;
Nec semper laesos, et sine fine, premunt.]

I know of no man of genius who had not to pay, in some affliction or defect either physical or read more

I know of no man of genius who had not to pay, in some affliction or defect either physical or spiritual, for what the gods had given him.

With silence only as their benediction,
God's angels come
Where in the shadow of a great affliction,
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With silence only as their benediction,
God's angels come
Where in the shadow of a great affliction,
The soul sits dumb!

Humanity either makes, or breeds, or tolerates all its afflictions.

Humanity either makes, or breeds, or tolerates all its afflictions.

Afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or estate.

Afflicted, or distressed, in mind, body, or estate.

Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears
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Thou art a soul in bliss; but I am bound
Upon a wheel of fire, that mine own tears
Do scald me like molten lead.