I have my own set of survival techniques. I am patient. I know how to pack light. But my one might travel talent is that I can make friends with anybody. I can make friends with the dead. If there isnโt anyone else around to talk to, I could probably make friends with a four-foot-tall pile of sheetrock. That is why Iโm not afraid to travel to the most remote places in the world, not if there are human beings there to meet. People asked me before I left, โdo you have friends [there]?โ and I would just shake my head no, thinking to myself, But I will.
Elizabeth GilbertIn Venice in the Middle Ages there was once a profession for a man called a codega--a fellow you hired to walk in front of you at night with a lit lantern, showing you the way, scaring off thieves and demons, bringing you confidence and protection through the dark streets.
Elizabeth GilbertNothing is so essential as dignityโฆTime will reveal who has it and who has it not.
Elizabeth GilbertI'm trying to dismantle a stereotype that in order to live any kind of creative life, you have to be in torment and suffering. We're addicted to this idea because it makes for good bio pics... but I actually think it's better to live a life where you're constantly exploring your curiosity and creativity.
Elizabeth Gilbert