If you're looking for perfection, look in the mirror. If you find it there, expect it elsewhere.

The difference between towering and cowering is totally a matter of inner posture.

One often reads about the art of conversation-how it's dying or what's needed to make it flourish, or how rare good ones are. But wouldn't you agree that the infinitely more valuable rara avis [rare bird] is a good listener.

Speculator: One who bought stocks that went down.

Advice: It's more fun to give than to receive.

I haven't a clue about the biology or the psychology involved when a person dissolves into tears, but it is quite fascinating to note what turns them on. There are wives who can cascade over a late husband or a burned dinner, and equally pour tears of joy over a new bonnet or a renovated bathroom.... A while ago I took a ship back from Europe. Amid the tumbling confetti ... I found myself misty-eyed watching a young lady waving a tearful farewell to her boyfriend on the dock. I couldn't figure out if I was crying at her plight, or in delight that he wasn't coming along with us.

Are you not justified in feeling inferior, when you seek to cover it up with arrogance and insolence?