What Saint has ever won his crown without first contending for it? - Jerome
Two things, well considered, would prevent many quarrels; first to have it well ascertained whether we are not disputing about terms rather than things; and secondly, to examine whether that on which we differ in worth contending about.
Look too on this poor planet of ours,Torn by the storms of mysterious powers,Evil contending with good from its birth,Wrenching in battle the heartstrings of earth,—Ah! what infinities circle us here,Strangeness and wonderment swathing the sphere! - Martin Farquhar Tupper
The habits of a vigorous mind are born in contending with difficulties. - Abigail Adams
You are here having realized the necessity of contending with yourself; then thank everyone who provides an opportunity. - Gurdjieff