If sometimes our great artists have been the most critical of our society, it is because their sensitivity and their concern for justice, which must motivate any true artist, makes him aware that our nation falls short of its highest potential. I see little of more importance to the future of our country and our civilization than full recognition of the place of the artist.

I am fully aware of the fact that the Democratic Party, by nominating someone of my faith, has taken on what many regard as a new and hazardous risk.

A country is as strong, really, as its citizens. And I think that mental and physical health - mental and physical vigor - go hand in hand.

Ask not that the journey be easy; ask instead that it be worth it.

I look forward to an America which will reward achievement in the arts as we reward achievement in business or statecraft. I look forward to an America which will steadily raise the standards of artistic accomplishment and which will steadily enlarge cultural opportunities for all of our citizens. And I look forward to an America which commands respect throughout the world not only for its strength but for its civilization as well.

The best road to progress is freedom's road.

I know there is a God - I see the storm coming and I see his hand in it - if he has a place then I am ready - we see the hand.