“Until that rainy Sunday at the movies 31 years ago, for me, companionship had been a mandate for life’s good times. After Orca, it became a choice. My trip to the theater helped me to distinguish between loneliness (experienced by default), and solitude (choosing when and how to enjoy my own company), as I began a journey of engaging the world on my own terms. Over the years, that journey deepened as I traveled life’s roads with increasing independence and confidence, whether I was attending graduate school at night while working during the day, buying my first house or changing careers.”

“You don’t have to spend a lot of money to feel like a million. A good night’s sleep, a quiet walk by the river or a hug from a favorite person will do the trick.”

“Indulgence comes in all varieties: a mouthful of gourmet chocolate, a hot stone massage, a week in Paris or 20 uninterrupted minutes to getlost in a book.”

“Rest and repose are as much a part of life’s journeys as seeing all we came to see.”

“If you are feeling constrained by a group that you belong to, ask yourself,“How can I participate in this community and still be who I am?”

“It is our beliefs, more than our experiences, that determine life's possibilities.”

“What do you believe about who you are? About your capabilities? When was the last time you trusted yourself enough to test them?”

“Turn off the radio, TV, DVD, iPod, computer and cell phone. Then, listen.”

“If we never challenge our shortcomings, we ensure that they remain our Achilles' heel.”

“Stop now and always wonder. Press forward and tap the wonder.”

“Life only plants the seeds. It’s up to us to help them grow.”