Why do people think the spiritual life demands withdrawal from the ordinary? Because they've been taught, at least by implication, that the physical is a block to the spiritual. When we assume that the spiritual, unlike the physical, is impervious to corrosion, then we assume that all things material are not to be honored. But the fact of the matter is, the material is the vehicle of the spiritual.

A life of value is not a series of great things well done; it is a series of small things consciously done.

Compassion is not sympathy. Compassion is mercy. It is a commitment to take responsibility for the suffering of others.

Prophets are so dangerous because they cry in season and out of season, politely and impolitely, loud and long.

The kind of "blind obedience" once theologized as the ultimate step to holiness, is itself blind. It blinds a person to the insights and foresight and moral perspective of anyone other than an authority figure.

Two ideas militate against our consciously contributing to a better world. The idea that we can do everything or the conclusion that we can do nothing to make this globe a better place to live are both temptations of the most insidious form. One leads to arrogance; the other to despair.

In our dreams lies our unfinished work for the world.