When autumn darkness falls, what we will remember are the small acts of kindness: a cake, a hug, an invitation to talk, and every single rose. These are all expressions of a nation coming together and caring about its people.

Just as important as our society as a whole are our small communities: our neighborhoods, workplaces and schools.

By voting, we add our voice to the chorus that forms opinions and the basis for actions.

The main experience, I think, is that we have managed: people moving to Norway has made Norway richer, economically, but also our culture has become more rich in many ways.

As a businessperson, I don't have the power to change the government. That is in the hands of the political leaders. However, as a taxpayer, we have the right to be critical of the government and demand change.

It may take a generation to achieve democracy. But our generation must accomplish this and not pass the buck to the next.

We should not be surprised that democracy is imperfect even in Western countries.

My opinion is the greatest reward that any government could get is the approval of the people. If the people are happy and the people are at peace and the government has done something for them, that's the greatest reward I think any government could hope for.