Garrison Keillor

You learn this great lesson of life: it's not about me. It's just not. The matter of talent-which seemed so important to you when you were young-is not of great importance. We're simply a conduit. We take things out of the air into us and put them in the form of stories. That's pretty much it.

I've wanted to be a writer since I was a boy, though it seemed an unlikely outcome since I showed no real talent. But I persevered and eventually found my own row to hoe. Ignorance of other writers' work keeps me from discouragement and I am less well-read than the average bus driver.

Even in a time of elephantine vanity and greed, one never has to look far to see the campfires of gentle people.

Welcome to Lake Wobegon, where all the women are strong, all the men are good-looking, and all the children are above average.

Some people have a love of their fellow man in their hearts, and others require a light anesthetic.

Life is unjust and this is what makes it so beautiful. Every day is a gift. Be brave and take hold of it.