Friendships are different from all other relationships. Unlike acquaintanceship, friendship is based on love. Unlike lovers and married couples, it is free of jealousy. Unlike children and parents, it knows neither criticism nor resentment. Friendship has no status in law. Business partnerships are based on a contract. So is marriage. Parents are bound by law. But friendships are freely entered into, freely given, and freely exercised.

Jefferson owned slaves. He did not believe that all were created equal. He was a racist.

In 1945, there were more people killed, more buildings destroyed, more high explosives set off, more fires burning than before or since.

World War II, the atomic bomb, the Cold War, made it hard for Americans to continue their optimism.

Washington's character was rock solid. He came to stand for the new nation and its republican virtues, which was why he became our first President by unanimous choice.

Immigrants do more than help us win our wars, or set up cleaning shops or ethnic restaurants.

The past is a source of knowledge, and the future is a source of hope. Love of the past implies faith in the future.