“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man’s anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.”

As soon as I arrive at the house, Laurie starts running, hits my chest, knocks me down, and licks my face. It’s become a family ritual.

Why let one high C ruin your whole evening?

Opera is music AND drama. I’m prepared to sacrifice the beautiful note for the meaningful sound any time…

I can’t be happy every day but I can be cheerful.

There are an awful lot of skinny people in the cemetery.

The last major childhood disease remains and it’s the worst of them all: nuclear war.

In youth we run into difficulties. In old age difficulties run into us.

I really do believe I can accomplish a great deal with a big grin, I know some people find that disconcerting, but that doesn’t matter.

I know that anybody who does all this and doesn’t have to, everything thinks she’s very driven. The truth is, I enjoy it all so! Can’t it be that simple?

When you’re in love, the whole world is Jewish.

There is no short cut to a place worth going.

I can make a pretty tone as well as anyone, but there are times when the drama of a scene demands the opposite of a pretty sound.

Art is the signature of civilizations.

I’ve always tried to be cheerful, because I think people who whine are boring, and I never could tolerate bores.

I never share credit or desserts.

There is something in me-I just can’t stand to admit defeat.

My favorite bands are the Allman Brothers and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Phil Niekro and his brother were pitching against each other in Atlanta. Their parents were sitting right behind home plate.

My brother is the youngest member of the College of Physicians and Surgeons. And I wouldn’t let him cut my nails.

My brother thinks it is very, very bad that I left Islam. My half-sister wants to convert me back; I want to convert her to Western values. My mum is terrified that when I die, and we all go to God, I will be burned.

In 1985 as a teenager in Kenya, I was an adamant member of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Mothers love them, little girls hate them, older sisters and brothers tolerate them, adults ignore them and Heaven protects them.

My brothers and sisters hated me because I was an only child.

The one who admonishes his brother secretly, he has advised sincerely and has honored him.