I think there's something about a writer's disposition, that is, even if unaware, always slightly in a witness state.

I found myself doing so much public speaking, more and more and bigger and bigger.

Our teachers are everywhere. Our teachers are right in front of us, and take so many forms. All we need to do is to open our eyes, to be open to and aware of the possibilities. Otherwise, we walk sightless among miracles.

When I was growing up, I had no idea that I could possibly become a writer. I wrote endlessly in journals - a practice I maintained for a long time, well into the writing life I had no idea I could ever have.

We can't protect ourselves from pain and heartache.

It is only with distance that we are able to turn our powers of observation on ourselves, thus fashioning stories in which we are characters.

I try to remember that the job - as well as the plight, and the unexpected joy - of the artist is to embrace uncertainty, to be sharpened and honed by it.