There are few professions whose primary objective is to advance the cause of humanity rather than simply to make money or accrue power. Among this limited group of humanitarians I would number teachers, nurses, bookstore owners, and bartenders.

Universal deities ... never seem to smile. Not in any culture. What's the point of having omnipotence if you don't enjoy it?

The queen of virtues is the recognition of one's own flaws.

Sometimes the cost of integrity is the loss of a friend.

Idiots are not responsible for what they do. The real guilt falls on rational people who sit on their hands while morons run wild. You can opt out if you want to. Play it safe. But if you do, don't complain when the roof comes down.

If you want creative and successful children, resign yourself to jousting with rebels.

... the truth is that when your people don't tell you what you need to know, it's a failure of leadership.