"And I Quote..."

"Quotations are used for a variety of reasons: to illuminate the meaning or to support the arguments of the work in which it is being quoted, or to provide direct information about the work being quoted (whether in order to discuss it, positively or negatively, to pay homage to the original work or author, to make the user of the quotation seem well-read). Quotations are also commonly printed as a means of inspiration and to invoke philosophical thoughts from the reader."

- Courtesy of Wikipedia

One of the most effective, yet misused or abused tools of communication, what I LOVE about quotes is that they are often the most concise manner in which to make a much broader point. Without wasting words or being enslaved to context, quotes can give authority and meaning to your messaging in ways that clichés and colloquialisms fail to do.

On occasion I will share examples of my personal and professional favorites. When the time permits, I may leave a few words on my interpretation or suggested uses, but this more intended to provoke dialogue. From the humorous, to infamous, to the obscure--something to make you smile while you contemplate. Please feel welcome to offer your commentary as well, then we shall get back to business as UNusual.

"Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls, and looks like work."

- Thomas Edison, American Inventor

"When the only tool you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail."

- Abraham Maslow, American Psychologist

"Let's be clear: The Net is not about technology, it's about people -- a fact that is obvious to everyone except to we programmers. The most important things we, as humans, need to do -- commercially or socially - is to connect with others. An online community is no substitute for real-world interactions. In fact, the most successful online communities are the ones that throw parties, sponsor events, host get-togethers - help members meet one another face-to-face in the real world."

- Craig Newmark, Craigslist Founder