If you want to understand any woman you must first ask about her mother and then listen carefully. Stories about food show a strong connection. Wistful silences demonstrate unfinished business. The more a daughter knows about the details of her mother's life - without flinching or whining - the stronger the daughter.

I pray I die before they day comes when I do not know if my sons are infants or grandfathers.

The painful things seemed like knots on a beautiful necklace, necessary for keeping the beads in place.

I am so honored to be the vessel into which you pour this story of pain and strength.

I could not get my fill of looking. There should be a song for women to sing at this moment or a prayer to recite. But perhaps there is none because there are no words strong enough to name that moment.

Making plans is a game. Life chooses for you.

The Bible - it's sort of the other person in the room. There's this book, the reader, and the Bible.