A diamond cannot be polished without friction, nor the man perfected without trials.

- Chinese Proverbs

The actual tragedies of life bear no relation to one's preconceived ideas. In the event, one is always bewildered by their simplicity, their grandeur of design, and by that element of the bizzare which seems inherent in them.

- Jean Cocteau

The best way out of a difficulty is through it.

- Will Rogers

Adversity is the first path to truth.

- Lord Byron

Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage.

- William Ellery Channing

Difficulty, my brethren, is the nurse of greatness a harsh nurse, who roughly rocks her foster children into strength and athletic proportion.

- William Cullen Bryant

Education is an ornament in prosperity and a refuge in adversity.

- Aristotle