...it was so rich and exotic I was seduced into taking one bite and then another as I tried to chase the flavors back to their source.

A thousand years ago the Chinese had an entirely codified kitchen while the French were still gnawing on bones. Chopsticks have been around since the fourth century B.C. Forks didn't show up in England until 1611, and even then they weren't meant for eating but just to hold the meat still while you hacked at it with your knife.

...in the end you are the only one who can make yourself happy. More important, ...it is never too late to find out how to do it.

I felt that I was really living in the moment. I did not know where my life was going, but right now the future did not trouble me.

Growing up, I was utterly oblivious to the fact that Mom was teaching me all that. But I was instantly aware of her final lesson, which was hidden in her notes and leters. As I read them I began to understand that in the end you are the only one who can make yourself happy. More important, Mom showed me that it is never too late to find out how to do it.

...it was so rich and exotic I was seduced into taking one bite and then another as I tried to chase the flavors back to their source.

The single most useful ingredient on the planet. In a pinch you can scramble them and call it dinner. But it only takes five eggs, a little milk and a handful of cheese to make a fat, sassy cheese soufflé.