The hallmark of our times is change and acceleration, but we have to provide the history.

Civility is not about dousing strongly held views. It's about making sure that people are willing to respect other perspectives.

There are words bandied about that are being misused - words like 'socialism,' words like 'communism,' words like 'fascism.

No activity I know is more of a confidence builder and at the same time more 'humility training' than wrestling.

Iraqis have held elections and have recently put together their government, all encouraging developments.

There's probably a little greater case for pessimism than optimism. But I do not rule out optimism.

It is hard to cement any relations with any country based on promises that may not be deliverable.

A government of, by and for the people is obligated to conduct the nation's business in a manner that respects dissent.

The arts and humanities are vastly more important in troubled times.

History provides a sense of where we've been and lessons that can be taken forward.

The majority of U.S. high school students don't know within 50 years when the Civil War occurred.

Music does not need a visa to enter your heart.

Prayer serves as an edge and border to preserve the web of life from unraveling.

Faithfulness requires the courage to risk everything on Jesus, the willingness to keep growing, and the readiness to risk failure throughout our lives.

I'm thoroughly convinced that editors don't help authors.

In the presence of their love I sensed my lonliness, and I understood for a moment, clearly, that deep and basic human desire for companionship at depth.

We do not consider our principles as dogmas contained in books that are said to come from heaven. We derive our inspiration, not from heaven, or from an unseen world, but directly from life.

Politics can be strengthened by music, but music has a potency that defies politics.

There are more and more taboos about calling something, anything, ugly.

I am a servant, taking orders and receiving orders. What God tells me, I say, and what He shows me, I see. His will must always supersede.

Necessity has a way of obliterating from our conduct various delicate scruples regarding honor and pride.