I had an idea to write something set back around the Civil War era, but I was just way too ignorant to think I could start it any time soon.

None of my English teachers in college were praising me or telling me I was anything special. But then in creative writing classes they were. And I enjoyed those more anyway.

I know people who are really talented at writing, and they just don't ever make it happen because they're also good at other things.

It's nice not to have to worry about applying for things. It's really a different existence.

A tree that is planted by the riverside blossoms all through because its environment has taking it beyond the realm of seasons.

You are your greatest asset in the business of your life.

I like animals. I like natural history. The travel bit is not the important bit. The travel bit is what you have to do in order to go and look at animals.

Well, I write in exile because I cannot return to my country, so I have no choice but to see myself as an exiled writer.

The beginning of faith is the beginning of fruitfulness; but the beginning of unbelief, however glittering, is empty.

On the Medicare side, they limited their cuts to far in the future, and to providers.

This is the great Secret of life.

There are a number of things that sound good, but frankly, we just can't afford them. And Obamacare doesn't sound good and it's not affordable.

Freedom is not given to us by anyone; we have to cultivate it ourselves. It is a daily practice... No one can prevent you from being aware of each step you take or each breath in and breath out.

Our biggest priority should be to stay engaged.