_

desires and impulses are as much a part of a perfect human being as beliefs
and restraints. strong impulses are only perilous when not properly balanced;
when one set of aims and inclinations is developed into strength, while others
remain weak and inactive. it is not because men’s desires are strong that they
act ill; it is because their consciences are weak. there is no natural
connection between strong impulses and a weak conscience. the natural
connection is the other way. to say that one person’s desires and feelings are
stronger and more various than those of another, is merely to say that he has
more of the raw material of human nature, and is therefore capable, perhaps
of more evil, but certainly of more good. strong impulses are but another
name for energy. energy may be turned to bad uses; but more good may
always be made of an energetic nature, than of an indolent and impassive
one.