Ocean’s remarkable stories, depth of commitment, and eloquent communication make him a fantastic resource for conferences, universities, and indeed everyone who wants a potent dose of grounded inspiration.

By kicking its carbon addiction, America will increase its national wealth and generate millions of jobs that can’t be outsourced.

That’s one component: rather than creating job-training pipelines that put these kids at the back of the line for the last century’s pollution-based jobs, we need to be creating opportunities for them to be at the front of the line for the new clean and green jobs.

A family-friendly “eco-populism” can mobilize and unite millions who, at this point, would be turned off by a more extreme set of demands. The momentum will build, through these early efforts, for more comprehensive solutions.

Let’s stop wasting billions of dollars on prisons, which send people home who are too often less capable and more damaged than when they went in. We would have safer neighborhoods if we spent the same money on true rehabilitation, job training, employment and entrepreneurship.

The unspoken imperative should be this: I want to understand you. And I want you to understand me – whether or not we ever agree.

In a sane society, common pain should lead to common purpose.

Barack Obama volunteered to be the Captain of the Titanic AFTER it hit the iceberg.

Dr. King didn’t get famous giving a speech that said,“I have a complaint.”

I don’t put myself above anyone, and I have as many shortcomings as any non-believer. I just choose to turn to a higher power to help me gain wisdom and, I hope, improve over time.