My parents shared not only an improbable love, they shared an abiding faith in the possibilities of this nation. They read more

My parents shared not only an improbable love, they shared an abiding faith in the possibilities of this nation. They would give me an African name, Barack, or blessed, believing that in a tolerant America your name is no barrier to success.

When you wish to instruct, be brief; that men's minds take in quickly what you say, learn its lesson, and read more

When you wish to instruct, be brief; that men's minds take in quickly what you say, learn its lesson, and retain it faithfully. Every word that is unnecessary only pours over the side of a brimming mind.

Nor shall derision prove powerful against those who listen to humanity or those who follow in the footsteps of divinity, read more

Nor shall derision prove powerful against those who listen to humanity or those who follow in the footsteps of divinity, for they shall live forever. Forever.

In order to be a realist you must believe in miracles.

In order to be a realist you must believe in miracles.

"Take courage, soul!
Hold not thy strength in vain!
With faith o'ercome the steeps
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"Take courage, soul!
Hold not thy strength in vain!
With faith o'ercome the steeps
Thy God hath set for thee.
Beyond the Alpine summits of great pain
Lieth thine Italy."

To me faith means not worrying.

To me faith means not worrying.

Reason is our soul's left hand, Faith her right.

Reason is our soul's left hand, Faith her right.

Faith is putting all your eggs in God's basket, then counting your blessings before they hatch.

Faith is putting all your eggs in God's basket, then counting your blessings before they hatch.

Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.

Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.