When I was asked to do something good, I often say yes, I'll try, yes, I'll do my best. And part of that is believing, if God loves me, if God made everything from leaves to seals and oak trees, then what is it I can't do?

Growing up, my grandmother did not want worldly music in the house. Then when I went out to California, I started listening to Spanish music, mostly Mexican music. But were I in Egypt, I would listen to the music of the people, or if I was in Italy, I'd listen to Italian music.

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style

Life is going to give you just what you put in it. Put your whole heart in everything you do, and pray, then you can wait.

I am not competing with anyone other than myself. I want to be excellent at whatever I do.

When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.

You dwell in whitened castles with deep and poisoned moats and cannot hear the curses which fill your children's throats.