This idea that failure is not an option: It makes failure invisible, inconceivable and inevitable.

I found incredible kindness, dignity and hospitality in both Iraq and Afghanistan - am only alive because of it - the most worthwhile lesson of a twenty month walk to these countries was a deepening appreciation of the kindness of strangers.

Democracy is not simply a question of structures. It is a state of mind. It is an activity.

The Afghan government is much better informed, much more intrusive and ambitious than I had guessed. There are amazing craftsmen in Kabul but few designers and wage rates are astonishingly high - which is a problem when trying to support and promote Afghan craft exports. The community in Murad Khani in the old city - who we are helping to restore their area - have been the best part so far - eccentric, led by a champion wrestler, determined, proud and courageous.

This idea that failure is not an option: It makes failure invisible, inconceivable and inevitable.

I have never met a villager who does not want a vote.

Despite the dubious statistics … democracy is a thing of value for which we should be fighting.