A student never forgets an encouraging private word, when it is given with sincere respect and admiration.
William Lyon Phelps

The final test of a gentleman is his respect for those who can be of no possible service to him.
William Lyon Phelps

The fear of life is the favorite disease of the 20th century.
William Lyon Phelps

Whenever it is possible, a boy should choose some occupation which he should do even if he did not need the money.
William Lyon Phelps

God speaks to me not through the thunder and the earthquake, nor through the ocean and the stars, but through the Son of Man, and speaks in a language adapted to my imperfect sight and hearing.
William Lyon Phelps

Those who decide to use leisure as a means of mental development, who love good music, good books, good pictures, good plays, good company, good conversation - what are they? They are the happiest people in the world.
William Lyon Phelps

The belief that youth is the happiest time of life is founded on a fallacy. The happiest person is the person who thinks the most interesting thoughts, and we grow happier as we grow older.
William Lyon Phelps

If you develop the absolute sense of certainty that powerful beliefs provide, then you can get yourself to accomplish virtually anything, including those things that other people are certain are impossible.
William Lyon Phelps