I am an optimist because I want to change things for the better and I know that blood has to be spilled and disharmony and cruelty are necessary to do that.

Each child is an adventure into a better life - an opportunity to change the old pattern and make it new.

Instead of giving a politician the keys to the city it might be better to change the locks.

Of course there is no question that Libya - and the world - will be better off with Gaddafi out of power. I along with many other world leaders have embraced that goal and will actively pursue it through non-military means. But broadening our military mission to include regime change would be a mistake.

Sometimes if you want to see a change for the better you have to take things into your own hands.

Men make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.

For having lived long I have experienced many instances of being obliged by better information or fuller consideration to change opinions even on important subjects which I once thought right but found to be otherwise.

I don't need a friend who changes when I change and who nods when I nod my shadow does that much better.

I shall not change my course because those who assume to be better than I desire it.

Change is inevitable. Change for the better is a full-time job.