We are alone, absolutely alone on this chance planet; and amid all the forms of life that surround us, not one, excepting the dog has made an alliance with us.

By ourselves we suffer serious limitations. Together we can be something wonderful.

In addition to all of the ratios and goals and parameters and bottom lines, it is fundamental that leaders endorse a concept of persons. This begins with an understanding of the diversity of people's gifts and talents and skills. Recognizing diversity gives us the chance to provide meaning, fulfillment and purpose, which are not to be relegated solely to private life any more than such things as love, beauty and joy. The art of leadership lies in polishing and liberating and enabling those gifts.

The greatest thing is, at any moment, to be willing to give up who we are in order to become all that we can be.

A friend of mine characterizes leaders simply like this: Leaders don't inflict pain. They bear pain.

Trust comes only with genuine effort, never with a lick and a promise.

Everyone in a successful organization must be willing and ready to risk. Risk is like change; it's not a choice.