There never was and is not likely soon to be a nation of philosophers, nor am I certain it is desirable that there should be.

My greatest skill has been to want but little.

One can hardly imagine a more healthful employment, or one more favorable to contemplation and the observation of nature.

I must walk toward Oregon, and not toward Europe. And that way the nation is moving, and I may say that mankind progress from east to west. We go eastward to realize history and study the works of art and literature, retracing the steps of the race; we go westward as into the future, with a spirit of enterprise and adventure.

How often we find ourselves turning our backs on our actual friends, that we might go and meet their ideal cousins.

If you can't explain it to a six year old, you don't understand it yourself. Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth.

I was not designed to be forced. I will breathe after my own fashion. Let us see who is the strongest.