For courage, there must be something at stake. I come here with nothing to lose.

War doesn't negate decency. It demands it, even more than in times of peace.

Though there had been moments of beauty in it, Mariam knew that life for most part has been unkind to her. But as she walked the final twenty paces, she could not help but wish for more of it.

I see America has infused you with the optimism that has made her so great

All my life, she gave to me a shovel and said, Fill these holes inside of me, Pari.

Though there were moments of beauty, Mariam knew for the most part that life had been unkind to her.

If America taught me anything, it's that quitting is right up there with pissing in the Girl Scouts' lemonade jar.