Not Confusing, Confucius.

I have a lovely friend who knows just what to say. (We all need those, don't we?) He sent me these, and for that, I'm really, really grateful. It was awesome timing. And these are good!

The gem cannot be polished without friction nor man without trials.  ~Confucius

There is in every true woman's heart a spark of heavenly fire, which lies dormant in the broad daylight of prosperity; but which kindles up, and beams and blazes in the dark hour of adversity.
-- Washington Irving

When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson