"In silence, I began to consider the folly of men who, neglecting the noblest part of themselves, disperse themselves in vain spectacles and useless speculations, seeking abroad what they could find within themselves.

I thought how great would be the nobility of our soul if it, instead of degenerating voluntarily by moving away from its origin, did not convert what God gave it to its honor."

Francis Petraca (1304 - 1373)