Writing went from being a calling to being a job. Business ruined things. It became like making sausages in a sausage factory.

In the end, I'm really interested in people and what we do with our short time here on earth. I'm interested in the human soul.

Borders are liminal spaces. Anyone worthy of the title of 'writer' is a border writer. We all are border people.

A great Chicano forebear of mine in writing is Rolando Hinojosa-Smith. He was writing good border mysteries for Chicano readers back in the '80s and '90s.

I've learned very, very, very clearly that money does not equal happiness or security, either.

The best news of the Christian gospel is that the supremely glorious Creator of the universe has acted in Jesus Christ's death and resurrection to remove every obstacle between us and himself so that we may find everlasting joy in seeing and savoring his infinite beauty.

May joy and good fellowship reign, and in this manner, may the Olympic Torch pursue its way through ages, increasing friendly understanding among nations, for the good of a humanity always more enthusiastic, more courageous and more pure.

Happiness makes up in height for what it lacks in length.