It is not merely the likeness which is precious... but the association and the sense of nearness involved in the thing... the fact of the very shadow of the person lying there fixed forever! It is the very sanctification of portraits I think -- and it is not at all monstrous in me to say that I would rather have such a memorial of one I dearly loved, than the noblest Artist's work ever produced.

In the spiritual life, as in all organic processes, everyone has their optimum and it is just as harmful to go beyond it as not to attain it.

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin

Everywhere you hang your hat is home. Home is the bright cave under the hat.

Lance Morrow

Government workers often get a bad rap, but it's rare for them to receive much appreciation when government works.

Matthew Lesko

The blood of Jesus Christ can cover a multitude of sins, it seems to me.

Denis Diderot

The discovery of agriculture was the first big step toward a civilized life.

Arthur Keith

I'm very, very concerned about the Bush presidency. I'm worried about the kinds of cuts in domestic programs that mean something to a lot of people, including members of my family, who depend on certain things from the government.

Sarah Jessica Parker

I'm quite convinced in my own mind that those who were arguing that was a more immediate one than some believed - were I'm sure convinced that they were right on fact, I don't think they were making it up. So as to lying, I don't think it has been established that any lies were told.

Christopher Hitchens

All the time that he can spare from the adornment of his person, he devotes to the neglect of his duties.

Bertrand Russell

People say I'm not good at writing about men. My dad left when I was 16. Give me a break. I'm doing the best I can.

Jennifer Weiner

Power, like a desolating pestilence, Pollutes what'er it touches; and obedience,Bane of all genius, virtue, freedom, truth,Makes slaves of men, and, of the human frame,A mechanized automaton.

Percy Bysshe Shelley, Queen Mab

There is nothing in the world like a persuasive speech to fuddle the mental apparatus.

Mark Twain

Above all, we wish to avoid having a dissatisfied customer. We consider our customers a part of our organization, and we want them to feel free to make any criticism they see fit in regard to our merchandise or service. Sell practical, tested merchandise at reasonable profit, treat your customers like human beings -- and they will always come back.

L.L. Bean