She is a figure of legend and fairy tale, one to be taken seriously, or she might knock you off your feet with a quick whirl of the staff she carries everywhere.

I have always loved fairy tales, even now at the age when I am supposed to be too grown up and cynical for them.

I could still turn back before I pass the last houses and really have to commit to this.

Starting the day - Another chance to be new again.How many of us still wish for that?To be your own sunrise.To awaken like a prayer - both solemn and joyful at still being alive.

my mother gave me islam.my father gave me the god of absence.and here i am.a religion made of myself.

Clever men are impressed in their differences from their fellows. Wise men are conscious of their resemblance to them.

Old age is the most unexpected of all things that happen to a man.

God's designs may be frequent justification for our actions, but it is we, the "self-made men", who take the credit.

It became clear when I got in my car that Persians are only really good for two things. Oil and hummus.

I can't focus on any one day, because I always have to be ready for the next. It's fun but frenetic - like living in a circus that never stops performing.

I hope at least that the following will endure: my trust in the people, and my faith in men and women, and in the creation of a world in which it will be easier to love

The only true phenom...is me.

I can relax in L.A. I think I'm the only person in that town who doesn't want to act. I was an OK singer. I was an OK dancer. But acting? Never could do it.