John Wayne is as tough as an old nut and as soft as a yellow ribbon.

You just do it. You force yourself to get up. You force yourself to put one foot before the other, and God damn it, you refuse to let it get to you. You fight. You cry. You curse. Then you go about the business of living. That's how I've done it. There's no other way.

I believe in the difference between men and women. In fact, I embrace the difference.

I've always preferred animals to little girls or boys. I had my first horse - actually it was a Newfoundland pony - when I was three, and I loved riding, without anyone shackling me - riding bareback as fast as I could.

I have never felt more alive than when I watched my children delight in something, never more alive than when I have watched a great artist perform, and never richer than when I have scored a big check to fight AIDS.

I had a hollow leg. I could drink everyone under the table and not get drunk. My capacity was terrifying.

I believe in mind over matter and doing anything you set your mind on.