As a 28 year old who's lived long enough to know the difference, I know now that the feelings I felt an 16 were not necessarily correct. But however overly dramatic, the desperation and hopelessness I felt at 16 was my reality.

I didn't find Jesus. He's been there the whole time.

I've rarely done anything that's overtly self-destructive without consciously knowing what I'm doing. And then of course, the astute journalist jumps forward and says, "Why are you being calculated?" Calculated seems to assume a sinister intent. My intent is always for artistic effect.

When you move artistically, the natural inclination is to denounce everything that's gone before.

You have to be willing to deal with the ups and downs of the music, the ups and downs of the audience.

In the beginning, though, I have to admit that I did have a chip on my shoulder. I did want to prove everyone wrong. But after I went through the process and came out the other side, it wasn't about anyone else.

I mean, I'm certainly not a 'teaophyte,' or whatever the word would be.