“If we desire to secure peace, one of the most powerful instruments of our rising prosperity.”

Promote, then, as an object of primary importance, institutions for the general diffusion of knowledge.

The great rule of conduct for us, in regard to foreign nations, is, in extending our commercial relations, to have with them as little political connection as possible.

Decision making, like coffee, needs a cooling process.

Strive not with your superiors in argument, but always submit your judgement to others with modesty.

I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world.

A small knowledge of human nature will convince us, that, with far the greatest part of mankind, interest is the governing principle; and that almost every man is more or less, under its influence.

The internet is full of many false and unverified quotes.

The internet is full of many false and unverified quotes.

I cannot imagine a God who rewards and punishes the objects of his creation, whose purposes are modeled after our own.

99% of failures come from people who make excuses.

I had hoped that liberal and enlightened thought would have reconciled the Christians so that their religious fights would not endanger the peace of Society.

There is nothing which can better deserve our patronage than the promotion of science and literature. Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.

Be courteous to all, but intimate with few; and let those be well-tried before you give them your confidence.

Citizens by birth or choice of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections.

Harmony, liberal intercourse with all nations, are recommended by policy, humanity, and interest.

Individuals entering into society, must give up a share of liberty to preserve the rest.

The desire to be a free person is very worthwhile. To be free means you are no longer the victim of fear, anger, craving, or suspicion.

To succeed in life and achieve results, you must understand and master three mighty forces – desire, belief, and expectation.

If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.

Ultimately, it is the desire, not the desired, that we love.

Love is the name for our pursuit of wholeness, for our desire to be complete.

One’s desire, not ability, determines success.

If we desire to avoid insult, we must be able to repel it.

There is a charm about the forbidden that makes it unspeakably desirable.