Catherine the Great

The title of Queen rang sweet to my ears, child though I was. … This idea of a crown began running in my head then like a tune, and has been running a lot in it ever since.

I like to praise and reward in a loud voice and to scold in a whisper.

I have no way to defend my borders but to extend them.

All punishments by which the human body might be maimed are barbarbarism.

I am one of the people who love the why of things.

God, grant us our desires, and grant them quickly.

When we know love matters more than anything, and we know that nothing else REALLY matters, we move into the state of surrender. Surrender does not diminish our power, it enhances it.

Love is a canvas furnished by nature and embroidered by imagination.

There is no love without forgiveness, and there is no forgiveness without love.

Loving him is like trying to hold onto an armful of balloons. Maybe I need someone to come along and pop them.

There is no remedy for love than to love more.

What greater thing is there for two human souls than to feel that they are joined to strengthen each other, to be at one with each other in silent unspeakable memories.

All we do is drive. All we do is think about the feelings that we hide.

A soulmate is someone who has locks that fit our keys, and keys to fit our locks.

Don’t ever let anyone keep your heart on a shelf just to take it down whenever it is convenient for them to feel.

I’m standing in the ashes of who I used to be.

Relish love in your old age! Aged love is like aged wine; it becomes more satisfying, more refreshing, more valuable, more appreciated and more intoxicating!

Love is only one fine star away.

I don’t care too much for money, money can’t buy me love.

I’m not something to butter up and taste when you get bored.

Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth.