Unlike Churchill, I have no plans to shape history. . . . Socrates gave advice

We are not here to enjoy the things on earth, but to pass them around. The people who do it are the happiest people you know!

Somebody said, "Well, you're going to write your definitive book about your life, biography." No, I'm not. I haven't done that. I wrote a book of letters which gives an insight into the real me as opposed to the public perceptions of me. But I'm convinced historians will figure out the things we got wrong and hopefully the things we got right.

It was just one year ago that the world saw this new, invigorated United Nations in action as this Council stood fast against aggression and stood for the sacred principles enshrined in the U.N. Charter. And now it's time to step forward again, make the internal reforms, accelerate the revitalization, accept the responsibilities necessary for a vigorous and effective United Nations. I want to assure the members of this Council and the Secretary-General, the United Nations can count on our full support in this task.

No, I don't know that atheists should be considered as citizens, nor should they be considered as patriots. This is one nation under God.

We can realise a lasting peace and transform the East-West relationship to one of enduring co-operation.

Whoever says Americas best days are behind it are looking the wrong direction.