I have no doubt that as the Iraqi security forces get better, and they are getting better and they are holding territory and they are doing these things with minimal help, that we are going to be able to bring down the levels of our forces. And I have no doubt that that's going to happen in a reasonable time frame.

Diplomacy, if properly practiced, is not just talking for the sake of talking.

Prejudice and bigotry are brought down...by the sheer force of determination of individuals to succeed and the refusal of a human being to let prejudice define the parameters of the possible.

I do have a favorite Zeppelin song, Larry, Black Dog.

There's no greater challenge and there is no greater honor than to be in public service.

Self esteem comes from achievements. Not from lax standards and false praise.

I play a lot chamber music.As for something that's hard for me to play, before I leave this Earth I'm hoping to play Brahms' Second Piano Concerto.