The Fork, the Witch, and the Worm (Tales from Alagaësia, #1)

by Christopher Paolini

Sometimes it was easier to fight a battle than to figure out how to deal with the more mundane details of life.

Worrying about the time is exactly what you need curing of. Does the eagle worry about the length of the day? Does the bear or the deer or the fish in the sea? No. So why should you? Chew what you can and leave the rest for tomorrow.

“Because a scar means you survived. It means you’re tough and hard to kill. It means you lived. A scar is something to admire.”

Strive for wisdom! Or at least a decrease in idiocy. —Angela of Many Names

blaming the dead for our mistakes never accomplishes much.”

you have grown wise in your old age.” “Not really. I’m just trying to avoid making the same mistakes as before.” “One could argue that is the definition of wisdom.”

“You are determined? You will spend your life in this manner, despite my counsel?” “I am.” And her mother sighed. “Then I must give you my blessing in the hope it may prove a shield against misfortune.”

Happiness, Eragon had decided, was a fleeting, futile thing to pursue. Contentment, on the other hand, was a far more worthwhile goal.