The poetry you read has been written for you, each of you - black, white, Hispanic, man, woman, gay, straight.

Nathaniel Hawthorne once said that easy reading is damn hard writing.

Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it!

Light and shadow are opposite sides of the same coin. We can illuminate our paths or darken our way. It is a matter of choice.

Some critics will write 'Maya Angelou is a natural writer' - which is right after being a natural heart surgeon.

I thought if war did not include killing, I'd like to see one every year.

Being thankful helps you to be present.People commit errors because they are not present.I would encourage women and men to be present - you'll avoid falling into certain pits.For instance, if you know that a person has just lost his wife or her husband or lover, it's unlikely that you will say something that will hurt that person's feelings if you're truly paying attention. You'll make a sweeter life for yourself and for those around you if you are present.