Start a conversation with someone with whom you have "nothing in common" and no possibility of scoring with, networking with, or even seeing again. In other words, a conversation just for the civilized hell of it.

The most amazing thing about young men is how invisible they were to you when you were young. It is also the most poignant.

We think of death and loss as tragic twins, but in fact it is loss that hurts us.

Hold the door for an old man. Old ladies can take care of themselves; they've been doing it long enough.

Remember that that "rude awakening" which your parents and well-meaning relatives threatened you with as a kid is better than no awakening at all.

Wanting someone so much that his very presence takes your breath away is one of the most thrilling happenings in life. Not getting him in no way diminishes this.

Have hot, wild sex with a friend. Then go out and do something stupid, like bowl, afterwards.