Let me embrace thee, sour adversity,
For wise men say it is the wisest course.

Let me embrace thee, sour adversity,
For wise men say it is the wisest course.

It is a man's own mind, not his enemy or foe, that lures him to evil ways.

It is a man's own mind, not his enemy or foe, that lures him to evil ways.

Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant.

Adversity has the effect of eliciting talents, which in prosperous circumstances would have lain dormant.

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.

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a
man's character, give him power.

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a
man's character, give him power.

Adversity reminds men of religion.
[Lat., Adverse res admonent religionum.]

Adversity reminds men of religion.
[Lat., Adverse res admonent religionum.]

Adversity makes a man wise, not rich ...

Adversity makes a man wise, not rich ...

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.

Adversity is like a strong wind. It tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so read more

Adversity is like a strong wind. It tears away from us all but the things that cannot be torn, so that we see ourselves as we really are.