Winona

“Oh, I suppose they’re not exactly gone, those green boys. It’s rather like a sapling turning into a tree. Can’t scrape off the bark, and whittle it down until you find that sapling again, now can you? No, of course not. The sapling becomes an oak. Forever changed. The realities of that war will remain inside us through heaven or hell. Best try and face it, Ty. Running from it won’t help. You’ll never turn back into the innocent sapling you once were.” Robert lifted his glass and grinned. “My friend, we’ve become a pair of gnarled old trees.”
― Kathleen Baldwin, Lady Fiasco

“To these qualities must be added one which is of great importance, this is discretion; humble as it seems, it has often brought about successes in which talent failed and genius did not succeed. Discretion in the great affairs of the world does wonders, and safety depends frequently and is chiefly derived from it....”
― Queen of Great Britain Victoria, The Letters of Queen Victoria : A Selection from Her Majesty's Correspondence between the Years 1837 and 1861 Volume 1, 1837-1843

“Father said it is not God’s will that any should suffer.” “Then why must we?” “We bear the consequences for what we have done to ourselves, and for the sin that rules this world. Jesus forgave the thief, but he didn’t take him down off the cross.”
― Francine Rivers, Mark of the Lion Collection

“What do you want of God, Roman?” It was an imperious question from so small a boy, and was said with a curious blend of humility and demand. “I’ll know when I face him.” “Perhaps the answers you seek can’t be found in something you can see and touch.” Amused, Marcus smiled. “You have big thoughts for a small boy.” The boy grinned. “A shepherd has time to think.” “Then, my little philosopher, what would you advise?” The boy’s smile faded. “When you face God, remember he is God.” “I’ll remember what he’s done,” Marcus said coldly. “That, too,” the boy said almost gently.”
― Francine Rivers, Mark of the Lion Collection