Reform is not for the short-winded. I'm committed to making sure the Senate is more than just a graveyard for good ideas. Mark Udall More Quotes by Mark Udall More Quotes From Mark Udall On the mountains mistakes are fatal. In politics, mistakes are wounding emotionally, but you recover. Personally, wilderness helps me get back in touch with natural rhythms, helps me reflect and, in the process, restore my creativity. Mark Udall mountain creativity mistake Some of the best times I've spent in Colorado have been in the backcountry with my mom and siblings, and more recently, with my own kids. That is why I'm concerned to see today's kids spending more time browsing the Internet than exploring nature. Mark Udall sibling mom kids It's my belief that, like every other American, gay and lesbian couples should be able to make a lifetime commitment to the person they love and protect their families. Mark Udall gay couple commitment Throughout my years of public service, I've listened to the voices of the gay and lesbian community, whether through whispered confidences or public declarations. I understand what it truly means to say that all people should be treated equally, and I'll always stand up for fair and equal treatment of gay and lesbian Americans. Mark Udall gay voice mean We all recognize that Colorado and our nation have a long and storied tradition of gun ownership for hunting, outdoor recreation and self-defense. However, I am not convinced that combat weapons are necessarily part of that heritage. Mark Udall hunting gun self When I talk about the importance of the institution of marriage, I think of the commitment and the significance of standing in front of those closest to you and promising fidelity to your partner 'til death do you part.' Mark Udall fidelity commitment thinking I've learned from being in the woods that titles don't mean much and that actions speak a lot louder than words - even in Congress. I always look for the people who want to act - people who want to run the river or climb the mountain - even if they're not members of my political party. Mark Udall party running mean I think most Americans would agree people should be treated equally and everyone ought to be able to pursue a fulfilling life with the ones they love. Mark Udall able people thinking I brag on the Democratic Party. We're libertarian on social issues, it's live and let live. Fiscally, we're conservative and responsible, and were environmentally conscious. Mark Udall libertarian issues party I believe climate change is real - and I believe we have to act to protect the climate as fast as we possibly can. Mark Udall climate real believe It's tough to know the value of water until it's gone. Mark Udall tough gone water I support allowing gay couples to marry because of - not in spite of - my values. And many of those values are the same ones deeply held by those who do not believe in gay marriage. Mark Udall gay couple believe The new Congress needs to move quickly to strengthen the Army and Marines - not to send more troops to Iraq - but to rebuild our capacity to meet national security threats globally. Mark Udall marine army moving There is no getting around it; Congress is failing the American people. Mark Udall congress failing people The balance between freedom and security is a delicate one. Mark Udall delicate security balance Good-faith re-examination of a position you've held in the past should be seen as a virtue, not a vice. Mark Udall examination vices past