For too long, and despite what people told me, I had fallen for what the culture said about beauty, youth, features, heights, weights, hair textures, upper arms.

Nothing can be delicious when you are holding your breath.

I am going to try to pay attention to the spring. I am going to look around at all the flowers, and look up at the hectic trees. I am going to close my eyes and listen.

Gratitude, not understanding, is the secret to joy and equanimity.

I went to Goucher College in Maryland for the best possible reasons - to learn - but then I dropped out at 19 for the best possible reasons - to become a writer.

I go to church every Sunday, which is like going to the gas station once a week and really, really filling up.

The reason I never give up hope is because everything is so basically hopeless.