In America we have a Declaration of Independence, but our history, our advancements, our global strength all point to an American declaration of interdependence.

Let your critics make you humble, and your enemies make you wise. Learn from every stumble but let nothing keep you down, for you were born to rise!

No matter who you are, no matter what your color, creed, how you choose to pray or who you choose to love, that if you are an American - first generation or fifth - one who is willing to work hard, play by the rules and apply your God-given talents - that you should be able to find a job that pays the bills.

Give the respect you want to receive; embody the grace you hope to encounter; and help others with no expectations whatsoever.

Remember that the biggest thing you could do today is a small act of kindness.

Gender bias is real. I was an early Barack Obama supporter, and I was even shocked at the way the media treated President Obama vs. how they treated Secretary Hillary Clinton. Questions that were asked about, what is wearing, how much does she weigh, about her hair were never ascribed to the president.

I still have that new senator smell.