The collective consciousness of mankind defines the existence and sustainability of this civilization.

People don't get to choose their family, but if you have the family you would choose - that's happiness.

Our ancestors derived less from life than we do, but they also expected much less and were less intent on controlling the future. We are of the arrogant generations who believe a lasting happiness was promised to us at birth. Promised? By whom?

Of the gladdest moments in human life, methinks, is the departure upon a distant journey into unknown lands. Shaking off with one mighty effort the fetters of Habit, the leaden weight of Routine, the cloak of many Cares and the slavery of Civilization, man feels once more happy.

The most frightful of all spectacles is the strength of the civilization without its mercy.

For what are the words with which to summarize a lifetime, so much crowded confused happiness terminated by such stark slow-motion pain?