All life is a delusion of the senses.

To be alive is sufficient evidence that we are needed in the world. Otherwise we wouldn't be here.

Probably one of the reasons why gushing is so unattractive is that it leaves nothing for the listener to do.

Charm lies in complete forgetfulness of self.

Try to think of your thoughts as boomerangs - that is actually what they are - except that our thoughts multiply and each returns to us with a brood like itself.

If Democracy should fail, it would be because we had been so lacking in self-discipline that our personal problems had taken all our substance and energies, leaving us nothing of value to contribute to the commonwealth.

a diplomat ... is not worthy of the name unless he can say 'no' and make the other person like it - or at least not be offended by it.