“Life was always easier, reflected Issy, when you were carrying a large Tupperware full of cakes. Everyone was happy to see you then.”

“As I've gone through life, I've found that your chances for happiness are increased if you wind up doing something that is a reflection of what you loved most when you were somewhere between nine and eleven years old.”

Walter Murch (1943) American film editor and sound designer

“Where is the cake? Cake is the language of love. I don't see any cakes in the building. You know, people say that to you: "I love you, I love you!"”

Dylan Moran (1971) Irish actor and comedian

“Never wish life were easier, wish that you were better.”

Jim Rohn (1930–2009) American motivational speaker

“Life was mostly made up of things you couldn’t control, full of surprises, and they weren’t always good. Life wasn’t what you made it. You were what life made you.”

Sara Zarr (1970) American children's writer

“When you were born you were crying and everyone else was smiling. Live your life so at the end, your're the one who is smiling and everyone else is crying.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882) American philosopher, essayist, and poet

“When you are tough on yourself, life is going to be infinitely easier on you”

Zig Ziglar (1926–2012) American motivational speaker

“The funny things is when you start feeling happy alone, that's when everyone decides to be with you.”

Jim Carrey (1962) Canadian-American actor, comedian, and producer

“Encourage everyone you meet with a smile or compliment. Make them feel better when you leave their presence and they will always be glad to see you coming.”

Joyce Meyer (1943) American author and speaker

“Those who write about life, reflect about life…. you see in others who you are.”

Bernard Malamud book Dubin's Lives