Watching people is always a great way to start a story idea.

Take the time to jot down a note or two when an idea comes.

Maybe there’s something to this ‘write your own obituary’ stuff.  When I get to the end of my life I want to look back and feel at peace.

Ordinary people can aim higher than they realize.

Complex characters can embody contradiction–after all, real people do.

The greatest challenge of this life may be learning to balance our loyalties, wants and responsibilities–again and again.