“The highest strength is acquired not in overcoming the world, but in overcoming one’s self. Learn to be cruel to thyself, to withstand thy appetites, to bear thy sufferings, and thou shalt become free and able.”

Source: Aphorisms and Reflections (1901), p. 164

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John Lancaster Spalding202

Catholic bishop 1840–1916

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“The highest strength is acquired not in overcoming the world, but in overcoming one’s self. Learn to be cruel to thyself, to withstand thy appetites, to bear thy sufferings, and thou shalt become free and able.”

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John Lancaster Spalding202

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