Everybody seems to be imprisoned in their own sectarian or political affiliations. They don't seem to be able to rise above these things.

I think the Shiites want a theocracy.

I think people are rapidly losing confidence in the political class, and I don't blame them.

Until and unless we could disband these militias, this country won't be able to function properly.

It won't be a question of how well-trained or well-equipped the army is but one of the authority it serves.

If the security forces continue to be dominated as they are now by political groups or sects, then the people won't trust in them - and the result will be civil war or fragmentation of the country.

An apology for the actions of some troops who, of course, are not representative of the majority of the armed forces here, I think that would have been useful and it would have helped to some extent.

Where ignorance prevails, there an opportunity exists.

The further you are in the wilderness, the closer the Promised Land is.

If you fear making anyone mad, then you ultimately probe for the lowest common denominator of human achievement.

I wasn't one to go out and buy a new car and stereo system and expensive clothes. My mom helped keep me grounded.

The drunken politician leaps upon the street where mothers weep, and the saviors who are fast asleep, they wait for you.

You might be a redneck if your momma gives you tips on how to sneak booze into sporting events.

You don't really see ugly people that are old, or a bit grotty and smelly, in the media. If a Martian came down, they would think we were all tall, thin, attractive and wealthy.

Even if you actually have the good intent to do something creative or special with your life, it's hard. I mean, look at the number of people who actually get the opportunity.

I enjoy many silent moments with my cat, a conversation always resumed exactly where left off.

Among men who are really free, every form of industry becomes more rapidly improved - all the arts flourish more gracefully - all the sciences extend their range.