When I think of how dangerous yet edifying it is to refuse to suffer fools, how much we owe to one who could get that feeling down on paper, I think of Mark Twain.

“A good lie will have travled half way around the world while the truth is putting on her boots.”

When I think of how one can find an example of writing that entertains and enthralls with sheer wit, deepens one’s vision with surprising plots, and makes one glad to be alive and able to absorb the thoughts of another, I think of Mark Twain.

“A powerful agent is the right word. Whenever we come upon one of those intensely right words in a book or a newspaper the resulting effect is physical as well as spiritual, and electrically prompt.”

When I think of a man who suffered tragedy and loss without turning away from his purpose, I think of Mark Twain. 

“Don’t go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first.”

When I think of someone who rose, and rose, and rose, on sheer talent, I think of Mark Twain.

“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.”

On my list of people I am glad walked our Earth, I think of Mark Twain. Happy Birthday, Samuel Langhorne Clemens.

“”The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter.””

More about this fabulous writer:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Twain