"Washington's answer to a self-inflicted financial crisis reminded Americans why they so deeply distrust the political class. The 'fiscal cliff' process was secretive and sloppy, and the nation's so-called leadership lacked the political courage to address our root problems: joblessness and debt."

"Climate change was a point of division between Obama and Republican rival Mitt Romney. The president declared climate change a global threat, acknowledged that the actions of humanity were deepening the crisis, and pledged to do something about it if elected."

"You can almost see voters nodding their heads at home: The public's faith in politicians and political institutions has been on a steep and dangerous decline for decades, because elected leaders fail to deliver."

"Don't underestimate questions from the crowd technology has made voters more informed than ever."

"I like children - fried."

"When you master your attention, you master your entire perception of reality — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"People, in whatever walk of life, would be surprised if they just gave themselves a chance by believing in what they are."

"It is a quiet truth that love does not demand perfection; it embraces the authentic journey of growth — an essential principle for the reflective life."