It is a kind of law of nature. The goal one aims for can rarely be reached by a direct road.

Our prevailing notions of history are exceedingly narrow and exceedingly selective. And basically the process of selection is one that aims to reassure ourselves that the myths that we believe in can be sustained. ... Recognize the truths, the realities that I want to and ignore the ones that I find inconvenient.

The peach trees in the orchard behind the house are just in full flower. Tomorrow we will institute a sacrifice there and solemnly declare our intention before Heaven and Earth, and we three will swear brotherhood and unity of aims and sentiments: Thus will we enter upon our great task.

No labor, according to Diogenes, is good but that which aims at producing courage and strength of soul rather than of body.

God seeks comrades and claims love,
the Devil seeks slaves and claims obedience.

It is a kind of law of nature. The goal one aims for can rarely be reached by a direct road.