There are family mysteries I cannot solve. There are family mysteries I am unwilling to solve.

You don’t choose these people and in the not choosing you learn tolerance. You learn to forgive.

I think all of us are always five years old in the presence and absence of our parents.

A theatrical spectacle is inherent whenever family members congregate and reacquaint themselves with powerful universal themes educed from homecomings including hugs, food, drink, conversation, politics, games, music, conflict, terror, mercy, smiles, tears, prayers, misfortune, and self-discovery.

That's how birthdays were in our house. All hateful charades of pretty clothes, expensive presents, and ugly words . . .

If a man's character is to be abused, say what you will, there's nobody like a relative to do the business.