"A lot of people over time have had this kind of pattern in their relationship with Bill Clinton. You first meet him and you're overwhelmed by his talent. He's so energetic and articulate and full of ideas and he calls himself a congenital optimist and that optimism is contagious."

"The exposed nature of life in the public square affects leaders' attitudes toward risk - and failure."

"My job is to be a spokesman - the spokesman, I suppose - for the President, for the White House, to do the daily briefings, to manage the press corps in terms of travel, day-to-day needs, access, interviews, all those issues."

"As women have played an increasingly important role in politics, there is no question that they've brought a different perspective, focusing attention on a broader set of issues and building alliances with other women."

"I think it's important to have closure in any relationship that ends - from a romantic relationship to a friendship. You should always have a sense of clarity at the end and know why it began and why it ended. You need that in your life to move cleanly into your next phase."

"Laughter is not a bad beginning for a friendship, and it is the best ending for one."

"There is a scarcity of friendship, but not of friends."

"Your experiences will be yours alone. But truth and best friendship will rarely if ever disappoint you."