Imagination may be the most essential, uniquely human capacity - creating both the dead-end crises of our time and the doorway through them.

People will come to test and divide us, but, as long as we keep compassion in our hearts for others, they won't win.

Shall I make you a cup of tea? He asked. It was the classic response to crisis practiced throughout these islands—in England, Scotland, and elsewhere. Emotional turmoil, danger, even disaster could be faced with far greater equanimity if the kettle was switched on. War has been declared! There’s been a major earthquake! The stock market has collapsed! Oh really? Let me put the kettle on….