[S]he believed that the Buddhists were right–that if you want, you will suffer; if you love, you will grieve. (68)

You were loved because God loves, period. God loved you, and everyone, not because you believed in certain things, but because you were a mess, and lonely, and His or Her child. God loved you no matter how crazy you felt on the inside, no matter what a fake you were; always, even in your current condition, even before coffee. God loves you crazily, like I love you...like a slightly overweight auntie, who sees only your marvelousness and need.

Some people won't go the extra mile, and then on their birthday, when no one makes a fuss, they feel neglected and bitter.

In fact, not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and then waiting for the rat to die.

It was simple reality - most competitive tennis players in my day were privileged, spoiled, entitled and white. Also, many of them were beautiful, fit, tan and of good stock - great big hair and white teeth and long legs. Then there were the rest of us.

I was raised by my parents to believe that you had a moral obligation to try and help save the world.

There is ecstasy in paying attention.