If in doubt, don't. If still in doubt, do what's right.

The United States isn't going to do anything that it's not capable of doing. And if we do something, we'll be capable of doing it.

Don't automatically obey Presidential directives if you disagree or if you suspect he hasn't considered key aspects of the issue.

... something under $50 billion for the cost. How much of that would be the U.S. burden, and how much would be other countries, is an open question.

NATO member states vary dramatically in their capability and in their political steadfastness.

In our system leadership is by consent, not command. To lead a President must persuade. Personal contacts and experiences help shape his thinking. They can be critical to his persuasiveness and thus to his leadership.

Your performance depends on your people. Select the best, train them and back them. When errors occur, give sharper guidance. If errors persist or if the fit feels wrong, help them move on. The country cannot afford amateur hour in the White House.