I think that the Middle East is the largest piece of unfinished business that we all have. I happen to believe in the democratization process.

NATO has been a thread throughout my life.

We must be authors of the history of our age.

I think that we all know what evil is. We have a sense of what's evil, and certainly killing innocent people is evil. We're less sure about what is good. There's sort of good, good enough, could be better - but absolute good is a little harder to define.

I have very set and consistent principles, but I am flexible on tactics. I like to get the job done.

jewels have played a colorful part in the evolution of world affairs. Because precious stones tend to inspire both admiration and greed, leaders have found convenient excuses for seeking them and have used them to impress crowds, reward friends, deprive foes, forge alliances, and justify war. Jewels may find their highest expression in the decorative arts, but they have also earned a place in the art of the possible.

I think the hardest part [is] the priorities. There are an awful lot of things to do [being Secretary of State].