Some for renown, on scraps of learning dote, And think they grow immortal as they quote.

Much learning shows how little mortals know; much wealth, how little wordlings enjoy.

The clouds may drop down titles and estates, and wealth may seek us, but wisdom must be sought.

Wonder is involuntary praise.

If I were not a black artist but I was still singing, playing guitar, and singing ballads that are spiritual and cerebral, I'd be easier to market because people accept that from white female singer-songwriters faster.

To know a person's religion we need not listen to his profession of faith but must find his brand of intolerance.

While faith need not be monolithic - it can motivate both voting behavior and character development - focus matters. A Christianity constantly looking for political answers to moral and spiritual problems gives believers an excuse to blame other people when they should be looking in the mirror.

I'm one of those writers who, when writing, believes she's god-and that she hasn't bestowed free will on any of her characters. In that sense there are no surprises in any of my books.