In the quest for fortune and fame...don't forget about the simple things.

I started dealing with my emotional pain by writing. I always had been a writer, but just not songs. Saying things on paper that I would never, ever say, and saying things to myself, admitting things to myself, about myself and my personality, just putting it on paper, is how I deal with emotional pain.

I like when a teenager comes and talks to me on the street. I've been through a lot and I have a lot to share.

You know how people are becoming sexually active way too early because they think it's going to be like it is in the movies. And people are not aware of their bodies in a certain way, because they are afraid to see themselves for who they are because they want to see themselves in someone else's shoes or whatever.

I decided that instead of apologizing for having a lot to say, I wanted to create a format where people would come to hear me sing and speak.

Beautiful jewelry, a beautiful room - that's what museums are - a beautiful painting, a beautiful face, it makes you feel good to look at, and that's a beautiful thing.

There's hope. It doesn't cost a thing to smile. You don't have to pay to laugh. You better thank God for that.