Vale Molly Ivins.

Molly Ivins, that wonderfully prickly Texas rose, died today and Texas, the United States and the world are lessened by the loss.

Google her, read her words, chuckle at her acerbic wit. Here are three quotes that I like, but do some searching 'cos there are so many, many more.

The United States of America is still run by its citizens. The government works for us. Rank imperialism and warmongering are not American traditions or values. We do not need to dominate the world. We want and need to work with other nations. We want to find solutions other than killing people. Not in our name, not with our money, not with our children's blood.

I know vegetarians don't like to hear this, but God made an awful lot of land that's good for nothing but grazing.

During a recent panel on the numerous failures of American journalism, I proposed that almost all stories about government should begin: "Look out! They're about to smack you around again!"

Don't worry Molly, we'll hold onto the rage.