The real problem is that the way that power is given out in our society pits us against each other.

I work every day to live up to my mother's model. She was a very proud woman. And she really prepared me to go off into the world as a proud daughter.

My parents are older, and they lead a somewhat sheltered life. It was difficult to talk with them about things that were embarrassing to me, and that I had never spoken to them about

Well, of course it was a very trying time for me, and fortunately I had a lot of people who were supportive. A lot of people who were writing and calling and saying they were praying for me. Some people sent me Scripture, and that helped.

I'm not sure I can say there is a clean line between me as an individual and me as a lawyer.

I did what my conscience told me to do, and you can't fail if you do that.

During this period at the Department of Education, my working relationship with Judge Thomas was positive.