"In the course of transferring all my CDs to my iPod, I have found myself wandering the musical hallways of my past and reacquainting myself with music I haven't listened to in years."

"What's funny is that the idea of popularity - even the use of the word 'popular' - is something that had been mostly absent from my life since junior high. In fact, the hallmark of life after junior high seemed to be the shedding of popularity as a central concern."

"You may never learn the names of any of the people you talk to in a dog park, even after many, many hours spent there with them, and many hours of conversation. But if - knock on wood - anything should ever happen to your dog, these nameless non-strangers will rally, sympathize, offer to help, and hold your hand. I know this from experience."

"I have no idea how to get in touch with anyone anymore. Everyone, it seems, has a home phone, a cell phone, a regular e-mail account, a Facebook account, a Twitter account, and a Web site. Some of them also have a Google Voice number. There are the sentimental few who still have fax machines."

"The darkest nights often reveal that the truest form of bravery is vulnerability."

"It is a subtle truth that a steadfast commander remains calm when the storm rages fiercest."

"It is a subtle truth that when purpose is clear, every obstacle transforms into a stepping stone — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"A mindful spirit recognizes that wisdom is knowing when to speak and when to listen."