I’ve been on Twitter for about a year now (@thadsquirrel), during which time I’ve put out almost 600 tweets—the great majority of which are inspirational quotes. Recently, I picked out my 10 favorites, which you’ll find below, followed by some brief personal thoughts in italics.

Some background on the quotes: I started collecting them about 15 or so years ago. Whenever I found a compelling short passage in a book, or stumbled upon an inspiring line on the Web, I would jot it down in a small notebook. I now have four or five filled with them.

I think what makes a great quote is the ability of the message to convey an idea that is greater than its word count (or in the case of Twitter, its 140 character count). I personally gravitate toward ideas that really get me thinking about my own life—hopefully some of these do the same for you.

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet. ~Oppenheim

Whenever I get wanderlust, I remember this one.

While some men see ordinary happenings, others see divine light and guidance. ~Merton

One of my all-time favorites, a reminder to see the magic in everyday life.

If you did not know how old you were, how old would you be? ~Anon

Age is just a number, something I increasingly tell myself as the years fly by.

It is not theology or philosophy, but only your heart, that will lead you to God. ~James P. Carse

I read a lot of spirituality books, but this reminds me that books alone will only take me so far.

The small still voice which speaks from within is superior to your own powers of reason. ~ Napolean Hill

The most important piece of advice for finding guidance in life.

There is nothing that will bring us such abundant returns as to take a little time in the quiet, each day of our lives. ~Trine

Words to live by—I wish I could say I lived by them everyday, but I’m trying.

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. ~Emerson

My favorite quote from Ralph Waldo who has plenty of them. A reminder to zig while everyone else zags.

You must first have the knowledge of your power; second, the courage to dare; third, the faith to do. ~Haanel

Three important steps to take before tackling any difficult task. My most re-tweeted quote ever.

It does not really matter what we expect from life, but rather what life expects from us. ~Frankl

From an unforgettable book about the author’s stay in a concentration camp and the meaning he found in it.

As you go the way of life, you will see a great chasm. Jump. It is not as wide as you think. ~Joseph Campbell

When Joseph Campbell says jump, I say “how high?” Sound advice that reminds us the challenges we face are often not as great as we think.

Use the talents God has given you to make the world better for your having been in it. ~Collier

Oops, was that 11? But who’s counting.