There is a time early in life when there seem to be countless reasons for happiness, and then you discover your mom is making them up.

The trick to playing second fiddle is to play it like second Stradivarius.

Do not be someone looking for [insert]. Be [insert] looking for someone. Suggestions for [insert]: —love —friendship —understanding —appreciation —tolerance —a helping hand —a leg up —an answer

I nod to a passing stranger, and the stranger nods back, and two human beings go off, feeling a little less anonymous.

It is possible at any age to discover a lifelong desire you never knew you had.

A commuter tie-up consists of you — and people who for some reason won't use public transit.

Mom - the person most likely to write an autobiography and never mention herself.