Don't waste your time on jealousy; sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind. The race is long, and in the end, it's only with yourself. Remember compliments you receive, forget the insults; if you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

The soul-sucking activity of TV-watching feels better when it is done with other souls.

Linda Tripp has shown that a true friend is an archivist, a biographer.

For some Chicago expats, food is the medicine that blunts the pain of separation.

Getting out of the house is the secret to staying alert through the droning hours leading up to the big meal, even if you don't go farther than 7-Eleven for another six-pack.

You can map your life through your favorite movies, and no two people's maps will be the same.

The secret to happiness, at Thanksgiving or any time, is to reframe obligation as opportunity. You don't have to spend Thanksgiving with your family. You get to.