“Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
I want to inspire the cooperative instincts of people – ideally at first in business, later in public and community life, but always in family. I loved my Navy leadership experiences – solving problems and improving the lives of my teammates. Most importantly, I enjoyed the taste it gave me of significant objectives collectively met and the satisfaction of making the whole greater than the sum of the parts. I want to set an example for my children of responsibility, accountability, hard work, and a selfless concern for others. I want them to be proud of their father's achievements yet humbled by his shortcomings. In the end, I want my family and those who act with me and are encouraged by my example to be optimistic about the world and to strive to make it better than it was when they entered – and realize their role in inspiring others.
— Bill Berrien