Conversation, like certain portions of the anatomy, always runs more smoothly when lubricated.
Experience teaches us that it is much easier to prevent an enemy from posting themselves than it is to dislodge them after they have got possession.
Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.
We are either a United people, or we are not. If the former, let us, in all maters of general concern act as a nation, which have national objects to promote, and a national character to support. If we are not, let us no longer act a farce by pretending to it.
Where are our Men of abilities? Why do they not come forth to save their Country?
Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your reputation. Be not apt to relate news, if you know not the truth thereof. Speak no evil of the absent, for it is unjust. Undertake not what you cannot perform, but be careful to keep your promise. There is but one straight course, and that is to seek truth, and pursue it steadily. Nothing but harmony, honesty, industry and frugality are necessary to make us a great and happy nation.
I can only say that there is not a man living who wishes more sincerely than I do to see a plan adopted for the abolition of slavery.
In a sluggish system, aggressiveness produces instability. Either be patient or make the system more responsive.
When you feel good about the work you're doing, that's what's important, not the budget or anything like that. If you're happy about the actors you're working with, that's what's important.
Don't duck the most difficult problems. That just ensures that the hardest part will be left when you are most tired. Get the big one done - it's downhill from then on.
In a speech, the columnist Charles Krauthammer. . . . offered a new version of Socrates' famous saying, "The unexamined life is not worth living. " In our age of bottomless self-love and obsession with our own feelings, Krauthammer suggested, "The too-examined life is not worth living either.