Richard Ratliff

No matter how skilled they are in industrial arts, we must teach our people how to develop and sustain a livable society, including healthy, workable relationships.

We need those who are intelligent and fair as a judge with impeccable integrity; who are temperate as a spring morning; courageous as a Navy Seal; prudent as a prophet; who love with compassion; whose list of friends extends equally across the aisles that divide; who, regardless of physical stature, appear as giants wherever they stand.

All good relationships have several things in common. They are in fact pretty simple. Good relationships are mutually beneficial and mutually pleasant, and the parties respect and trust each other.

As we prioritize justice, tranquillity, a common defense, the general welfare, the blessings of liberty, and becoming a more perfect union, a foundation of healthy relationships means that what unites us is stronger than whatever might otherwise divide us.

The best governments enjoy the best relationships. Good relationships help more and cost less.

"Right now, our society is suffering. A nation of good people, bogged down in political mire, vitriol, conflict and a stubborn case of gridlock. ... Perhaps if we fix the relationships, we could fix everything else."