The need to connect with one another intimately is what makes and keeps us human. The challenge throughout life is to find the courage to reach out to potential partners when our primary relationship ends and to recharge our tried-and-true unions when their sizzle starts to fizzle.

Marriage is not just spiritual communion, it is also remembering to take out the trash.

Being taken for granted can be a compliment. It means that you've become a comfortable, trusted element in another person's life.

Never try to negotiate with anyone after he or she has eaten. People are best persuaded on an empty stomach. And forget power breakfasts. There is no convincing anyone of anything before 10 A.M.

There is such a thing as bad publicity.

Listening, not imitation, may be the sincerest form of flattery.

I watched the Trade Center buildings go down from my balcony, and it was a terrifying moment. I couldn't get my mind around it at all.