Every talent is unearned, however, and with it comes a solemn obligation to use it as fully and as wisely as possible.

Books had shown me, however, that all people everywhere wanted their lives to have purpose and meaning. This longing was universal.

What looks tragic might be comic on second consideration, and what is comic might bring tears in time.

Duty doesn't need to call; it only needs to whisper. And if you heed the call, no matter what happens, you have no need for regret." Odd Thomas

I have learned a great deal from novels. Some of it is even true.

I am no theologian. I would not be surprised, however, if Heaven proved to be a cozy kitchen, where delicious treats appeared in the oven and in the refrigerator whenever you wanted them, and where the cupboards were full of good books.

Experts must read the patterns and judge their usefulness as evidence. Under any of numerous pressures, an expert may wish to misread a pattern or even to alter it. Americans had a touching trust in "experts".