The Republic of Texas is no more.

Sometimes it is better to work out the map for yourself rather than have it given to you, in terms of learning.

It's a wonderful thing to be optimistic. It keeps you healthy and it keeps you resilient.

All I know is this: If you and papa are responsible for the way I am, then I thank you with all my heart, for it is the light and the joy of my life.

The poets of each generation seldom sing a new song. They turn to themes men always have loved, and sing them in the mode of their times.

I didn't really learn how to play guitar until I was in college.

The meaning of life can be revealed but never explained.

As a young composer I had a particular fondness for Liszt's Beethoven Symphony arrangements for the piano, and to this day I enjoy playing non-piano music at the piano.

Your worst enemy is hiding within yourself, and that enemy is your nafs or false ego.

I feel like you've gotta be able to get up every night in front of a live audience. Whether it's 10 people or 50 people or a hundred people, whether you're in a rock band or doing the comedy circuit.

The tears of childhood fall fast and easily, and evil be to him who makes them flow.

I always feel the audience is my best teacher.