There's a huge piece of humanity that's missing - a huge piece - and our [American] culture is infant, comparatively speaking, to these folks who have been around for thousands of years.

Our time on Earth is so random.

I honestly never had the biological need to reproduce until I met my husband. But by the same token, even if we were unsuccessful, we were totally okay with adopting.

Refrain from being too judgmental. You'll often be surprised by what people have to offer.

We have to start seeing people as human beings. Our entire humanity depends on that.

He imagines Owens' body dotted with saltwater reservoirs just below the skin. An entire wetland, populated with tiny fish and birds, thriving in his agitation. A species of dwarf crocodile lazing beside an artery.

Try to accomplish things you have always dreamt of while you can. I know it sounds cliché, but the biggest lesson I have learned is that life is precious; enjoy it while it lasts.