We spend our whole lives worrying about the future, planning for the future, trying to predict the future, as if figuring it out will cushion the blow. But the future is always changing. The future is the home of our deepest fears and wildest hopes. But one thing is certain when it finally reveals itself. The future is never the way we imagined it.

I don't understand why people don't understand that the world of TV should look like the world outside of TV.

I'm a black woman every day, and I'm not confused about that. I'm not worried about that. I don't need to have a discussion with you about how I feel as a black woman, because I don't feel disempowered as a black woman.

Cynicism is a choice. Optimism is a better choice.

I never, ever pay attention to the ratings. I stopped paying attention to the ratings somewhere around season two or three of Grey's. It's something I have no control over, so I don't even pay attention.

Boundaries don't keep other people out, they fence you in.

You can't tell stories and really walk in someone's shoes and not have a love for them, even if they're doing horrible things.