All in all, Kirk's character is something I am very proud of.

In my proudest moments, I think I had a real hand in the creative force of making 'Star Trek.' But most of the time, I don't think about it.

I have been accused of never saying no.

Getting that audience approval is always a question mark, and it's always that flag that flutters in front of you.

What is down will go up. At the same time, you have to be prepared for what is up to go down.

But if you want to know the truth, the weirdest thing that has happened has been my discovery that people who attend the conventions are filled with love.

My kids say if there's any family dinner that doesn't result in somebody crying, it's not a good dinner. They cry because it helps relieve them of a guilt or some onerous emotional burden. It's like a family tradition.