Washington Irving

The natural effect of sorrow over the dead is to refine and elevate the mind.

A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.

There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.

Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.

A father may turn his back on his child, brothers and sisters may become inveterate enemies, husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands. But a mother's love endures through all.

There is never jealousy where there is not strong regard.

Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortune; but great minds rise above them.

Christmas is a season for kindling the fire for hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.