-
I'm one of those people for whom success is one thing, but significance is another. If I can have both, I'm living the dream.
-
Coming from a background as unique as mine, the first challenge is being able to identify chaos as chaos. For the first half of my life, I interpreted chaos as normal. Today, I am aware that I have triggers: a default way of thinking that is often not relative to the immediate moment. Therefore, in the midst of chaos, I have learned to relinquish all my premature cognitive commitments and become present.
-
An unresolved past erodes beauty in the present.
-
The only difference between comedy and drama is that, in comedy, I'm going to utilize the tool of creating laughter to deflect discomfort and, in drama, I won't use a tool, but we're going to actually deal with the discomfort and see what comes out of it.
-
I'm not really volunteering for no family films. I really like the sweet spot of being able to be edgy and controversial.
-
Writing a funny story is one thing. But writing a funny story that inspires others to venture beyond their level of comfort in pursuit of their greater good is what makes me come alive.
-
I feel comfortable working with people who are secure in themselves and confident in what they do.
-
For my lifestyle, I believe in living 10 times below my means. As a result of that, I have the luxury of working only when I'm inspired.
-
Wanting an honest opinion about my art from someone whose opinion I respect makes me feel vulnerable. It's a great space to be in.
-
Consciously or subconsciously, we become slaves to debt and social obligation. As a result, we end up more committed to the minutia and less in tune with the bigger picture: our deepest sense of purpose.
-
I had a grandmother who would always encourage me to learn about theater and film.
-
Stillness empowers. Being able to detach from all external stimulants - social media, social engagements, TV, alcohol, food, etc. - and face our own silence is an enormous luxury that should not be taken for granted. The most rewarding moments in my life have stemmed from such stillness.
-
Being able to engage my creativity in a way that makes a difference inspires me more than anything.
-
Pain is inevitable. It is actually a great opportunity for growth, but when we blame or fail to take responsibility for our suffering, the pain becomes stagnant, and stagnant pain can have a compounding effect if left unchecked.
-
It will be difficult if people can't get past their prejudices; I don't mean Black and White; I mean people automatically assume because a film has a predominantly Black cast, that it is a particular quality of film.
-
If you are courageous enough to be still, you are a step closer to becoming empowered.
-
One of my biggest lessons in life is, we heal at the speed of our forgiveness.