“It is the duty of all persons, when affairs are the most prosperous, 12 then in especial to reflect within themselves in what way they are to endure adversity.”

Source: The God of the Machine (1943), p. 15

My Inventions (1919)
Source: My Inventions: The Autobiography of Nikola Tesla
Context: From childhood I was compelled to concentrate attention upon myself. This caused me much suffering, but to my present view, it was a blessing in disguise for it has taught me to appreciate the inestimable value of introspection in the preservation of life, as well as a means of achievement. The pressure of occupation and the incessant stream of impressions pouring into our consciousness through all the gateways of knowledge make modern existence hazardous in many ways. Most persons are so absorbed in the contemplation of the outside world that they are wholly oblivious to what is passing on within themselves. The premature death of millions is primarily traceable to this cause. Even among those who exercise care, it is a common mistake to avoid imaginary, and ignore the real dangers. And what is true of an individual also applies, more or less, to a people as a whole.

The Mystery of Providence

Source: Epigrams, p. 371

Wooden: A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections on and Off the Court (1997)

No. 71
The Federalist Papers (1787–1788)

Maxim 872
Sentences, The Moral Sayings of Publius Syrus, a Roman Slave

Source: The Way of All Flesh (1903), Ch. 5

Of Adversity
Essays (1625)