Really, I have to laugh because there was a whole set of stories that made me sound like the Dragon Lady, you know, 'tough this and tough that.' Then there is this business about 'gooey.' The bottom line is I am a pragmatic idealist.

In diplomacy, clear-cut wins and losses are rare.

I get up every morning and I'm grateful for everything that has happened. I go through my list about being grateful for my children and grandchildren, and for the really remarkable life that I have been able to have.

I do think that she [Hillary Clinton] will prove that she's the best, whether she's in the White House or somewhere else. I think it will very much be a historic moment, when we are able to say that we actually have done something like put a woman in the White House. Its very interesting to think about considering its taken us long as it has.

Whatever the job you are asked to do at whatever level, do a good job because your reputation is your resume.

I've never been to New Zealand before. But one of my role models, Xena, the warrior princess, comes from there.

Women have to work exceptionally hard.