Firebird

turn your talents to the task that called us when we were young and idealistic, when we willingly, bravely became scientists to understand the intricacies of Nature and with our understanding turn her to the benefit of the future. Maybe Nature will not bend, outwit us as she always does, but let us make our struggle with her, with our understanding, not with the past or with personalities we dislike. Let us act without regard to rewards or consequences, and we will succeed even in failure.

“He was angry with me, he attacked me, he defeated me, he robbed me—” those who dwell on such thoughts will never be free of hatred.’

Result Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Publicity

The Earth is a finite place and the presumption that what is best for humans is best, that we know best, is dangerous beyond words. If we are to accept stewardship, let it be with reluctance and the greatest humility.

Every scientist I know is a professional amateur. We’re amateurs because everything we try, we’re trying for the first time. We’re professionals because we have the sense to know that whatever it is, we’re going to have a helluva time with it. Every one of us is a greenhorn.