When the astronomer and author Carl Sagan was asked if he believed in the existence of highly evolved life elsewhere in the universe, he replied, “The key word in that question is believe.”

He then added: “And in my view, you believe on the basis of compelling evidence.”

Now, let’s take Carl’s thought to the next level. Wouldn’t you rather know than believe?

There is always a relationship.

Things happen because of interaction, which can often be so subtle that only your intuition can decipher what has taken place and why.

Your mission as an artist is to be aware of cause and effect, a universal law and the seed for humankind’s wonderful discoveries, including the source of great art.

Do not lionize, idolize, or make well-known figures (this list includes all those who may reject or accept your art) into icons of perfection whom you deem as essential to your work; this corrupts both you and them.

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I heard Oscar Peterson, the jazz pianist, being interviewed on a radio show.

When asked about criticism, Oscar said that he liked what Igor Stravinsky had told him, which, to paraphrase, was: I have never seen a monument for a critic.

The difference between theory and what happens in the field is the difference between reading instructions on swimming and being tossed into the deep end of the pool.

While it is firsthand experience that makes you strong, you can certainly build upon the work of others you respect. But, before you can meaningfully assimilate their observations you must comprehend how they came to their conclusions.

Otherwise, you are building a spare guest room on top of a house of cards.