Obama seemed poised to realign American politics after his stunning 2008 victory. But the economy remains worse than even the administration's worst-case scenarios and the long legislative battles over health care reform financial services reform and the national debt and deficit have taken their toll. Obama no longer looks invincible.

Many soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from serious long-term physical and mental health problems due to their service. It is unconscionable to cut the already limited health care benefits available to these brave men and women.

One lesson that every nation can learn from China is to focus more on creating village-level enterprises quality health services and educational facilities.

To desire and strive to be of some service to the world to aim at doing something which shall really increase the happiness and welfare and virtue of mankind - this is a choice which is possible for all of us and surely it is a good haven to sail for.

Wealth like happiness is never attained when sought after directly. It comes as a by-product of providing a useful service.

Religion has done love a great service by making it a sin.

The great accomplishment of Jobs's life is how effectively he put his idiosyncrasies - his petulance his narcissism and his rudeness - in the service of perfection.

There are a great many men valued in society who have nothing to recommend them but serviceable vices.

Memorial Day this year is especially important as we are reminded almost daily of the great sacrifices that the men and women of the Armed Services make to defend our way of life.

Whoever renders service to many puts himself in line for greatness - great wealth great return great satisfaction great reputation and great joy.