“every so often I’ll hear writers say that there are other writers they would read if for no other reason than to marvel at the skill with which they can put together the sort of sentences that move us to read closely, to disassemble and reassemble them, much the way a mechanic might learn about an engine by taking it apart.” —Francine Prose, author “Reading Like a Writer”

“I am more focused on the importance of kindness, generosity of heart, and of not tolerating nonsense from people who want to make me feel miserable. I want to spend my precious moments surrounded by great people and experiences that I can get excited about. Life is a limited commodity and I do not take even one minute for granted.” —Raeleen D'Agostino Mautner, PhD., author ”Lemons into Limoncello”

“A craven can be as brave as any man, when there is nothing to fear. And we all do our duty, when there is no cost to it. How easy it seems then, to walk the path of honor. Yet soon or late in every man's life comes a day when it is not easy, a day when he must choose.” —George R. R. Martin, author "A Song of Ice and Fire" series

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance which no man could have dreamed would have come his way. Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now.” —Goethe

“Opening your eyes is all that is needing. The heart lies and the head plays tricks with us, but the eyes see true. Look with your eyes. Hear with your ears. Taste with your mouth. Smell with your nose. Feel with your skin. THEN comes the thinking, afterward, and in that way knowing the truth.” —George R. R. Martin, author "A Song of Ice and Fire" series

“Reflect upon your present blessings of which ever man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes of which all men have some.” —Charles Dickens (1812 – 1870), Writer

“My mind is my weapon. My brother has his sword, King Robert has his warhammer, and I have my mind… and a mind needs books as a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge. That’s why I read so much, Jon Snow.” —George R. R. Martin, author "A Song of Ice and Fire" series