And the pressure to clarify what exactly is happening to Christians and other minorities in the Middle East is certain to intensify in the New Year.

Muslim immigrants like himself encounter prejudice here [in U.S.] but also find political and religious freedom.

America is or should be about inclusion. Immigrants like muslims don't and can't fit the white European mold that prevailed in this country 50 years ago.

At one congressional hearing, Bishop Francis Kalabat complained that administration officials are overlooking what's happening to his fellow Chaldean Christians.

Many immigrant groups have faced hostility. The Irish did in their time. Jews did. Italians did - and now, Muslim immigrants.

Fidel Castro is one of the most inspiring leaders of the 20th century.

The country has already become multicultural. Given immigration trends, it will only grow more diverse, and these new Americans want to share in their country's identity.

Being out of the mainstream is entirely consistent with the way Donald Trump is approaching his presidency.

Donald Trump seems to prefer people he sees as being on his side.

ISIS goes after any group that deviates from its extreme ideology, dissident Muslims, for example, or the Yazidis who practice an ancient religion distinct from both Islam and Christianity.

You shouldn't face discrimination because of your sexual orientation. That should be illegal.

No Scripture comes from any Supreme Creator.

Trust me, I write fiction.

The truth is often of no consequence.

Novels arise out of the shortcoings of history.

The principal of unity and indivisibility of the republic are the essential reference points.

It's simple until you make it complicated.

I hate going into a room with people in it and the feeling of them staring. I find every moment excruciating.

A cheerful, intelligent face is the end of culture.

Music - opera particularly - is a process which is endurable or successful only if it is achieved by people who love to collaborate.