You learn so much from competition you gain confidence every time you have to step up and perform

Touch is... one of the most ancient transactions, a defiance of the plasma membrane and the loneliness it brought.

A hug is the perfect gift, one size fits all, everyone likes them and no-one cares if it is given back.

In a sense, evolution adheres to the classic twelve-step program: it takes things one day at a time. It does not strive for perfection; it does not strive at all. There is no progress, no plans, no scala natura, or scale of nature, that ranks organisms from lowly to superior, primitive to advanced.

Writers are great lovers. They fall in love with other writers. That's how they learn to write. They take on a writer, read everything by him or her, read it over again until they understand how the writer moves, pauses, and sees. That's what being a lover is: stepping out of yourself, stepping into someone else's skin.

Friendship is a priceless gift, that cannot be bought or sold. But it's value is far greater than a mountain made of gold. For gold is cold and lifeless, it can neither see nor hear. And in time of trouble, it is powerless to cheer. So when you ask God for a gift, be thankful if he sends not diamonds, pearls or riches, but the love of real true friends.

I love all history because it’s storytelling. But, I will always have a special place in my heart for the Tudor dynasty.