God is love? Not bloody likely.

Is the Archbishop's blessing any more meaningful than the Politician's handshake? The come, they go, with bigger things than us on their minds.

The knowledge that refuge is available, when and if needed, makes the silent inferno of the desert more easily bearable. Mountains complement desert as desert complements city, as wilderness complements and completes civilization.

Once upon a time, I dreamed of becoming a great man. Later, a good man. Now, finally, I find it difficult enough and honor enough to be -- a man.

Critics are like ticks on a dog or tits on a motor: ornamental but dysfunctional.

Paradise for a happy man lies in his own good nature.

Music clouds the intellect but clarifies the heart.