Δαφνη Ευτυχια Αρθουρος

"In repudiating extremism, we need to recommit ourselves to a few common-sense principles that should transcend partisan differences.

"First, we cannot enhance our own security if we place in jeopardy what is most precious to us, namely the centrality of human rights in our daily lives and in global affairs.

"Second, we cannot maintain our historic self-confidence as a people if we generate public panic.

"Third, we cannot do our duty as citizens and patriots if we pursue an agenda that polarizes and divides our country.

"Next, we cannot be true to ourselves if we mistreat others.

"And finally, in the world at large, we cannot lead if our leaders mislead."

-- Jimmy Carter (b. 1924-10-01; President of US 1977-01-20 to 1981-01-20), 2004-07-26 (Address to the Democratic National Convention)

" Without truth, without trust, America cannot flourish. Trust is at the very heart of our democracy, the sacred covenant between a president and the people." -- ibid.

[1 October, in addition to being President Carter's birthday, is also the day NASA began operations (Wikipedia: "On July 29, 1958, Eisenhower signed the National Aeronautics and Space Act, establishing NASA. When it began operations on October 1, 1958, NASA absorbed the 43-year-old NACA intact [...]"), and the birthday of one of my nephews.]