That morning each of us found a breaking point. Not only a physical barrier, but a point where determination, stamina and duty clashed and were overcome not so much by pain but by absurdity.

I climbed on the rowing ergometer, and started to pull - losing myself in the rhythm of sweat and pain.

Once one is beyond a certain level of commitment to the sport, life begins to seem an allegory of rowing rather than rowing an allegory of life.

Being in shape was not my goal. My body was a tool to test the capabilities of my will.

The ergometer simulates the physical demands of rowing, packaging the pains with none of the amenities that make it worthwhile.

Those of us who stayed were younger, more tractable. Less sure of ourselves socially and intellectually, we gave ourselves to the sport with little idea of what we could give or receive.

In the race of life, what matters is to complete your race.

*Employee* is a label given to a creature that could not hold on to its dream.

I ask people impertinent questions. Hopefully turning up pertinent answers.

Of how much light will my destiny’s eyes have to become aware until it will come true in death?

Charity looks at the need not at the cause.

There's never been a culture without poetry in the history of the world.

We are bothered a good deal by people who assume the responsibility of the world when God is neglectful.

Happiness is dealing with setbacks with more grace, understanding and acceptance

I want to be happy; why do I do things that make me unhappy?

There may be troubled waters along the many paths my life shall take, but only I as a man, may keep my vessel afloat, and guide myself straight.