Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. -- Colin Powell

Lisp is a programmable programming language. -- John Foderaro

State is the root of all evil. In particular functions with side effects should be avoided. -- OO Sucks (bluetail.com)

While I’ve always appreciated beautiful code, I share Jonathan’s concern about studying it too much. I think studying beauty in music and painting has led us to modern classical music and painting that the majority of us just don’t get. Beauty can be seen when it emerges, but isn’t something to strive for in isolation of a larger context. In the software world, the larger context would be the utility of the software to the end user. -- [A comment on a blog]

There are two ways of constructing a software design; one way is to make it so simple that there are obviously no deficiencies, and the other way is to make it so complicated that there are no obvious deficiencies. The first method is far more difficult. -- C. A. R. Hoare

The function of wisdom is to discriminate between good and evil. -- Cicero

It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop. –Confucius

There is no chance, no destiny, no fate, that can hinder or control the firm resolve of a determined soul. ~Ella Wheeler Wilcox

First, have a definite, clear practical ideal; a goal, an objective. Second, have the necessary means to achieve your ends; wisdom, money, materials, and methods. Third, adjust all your means to that end. –Aristotle

Things work out best for those who make the best of how things work out. ~John Wooden