Momma was home. She was the most totally human, human being that I have ever known, and so very beautiful. Within our home, she was an abundance of love, discipline, fun, affection, strength, tenderness, encouragement, understanding, inspiration, support.

You should always know when you're shifting gears in life. You should leave your era - it should never leave you.

Who I am is the best I can be.

I am here and you will know that I am the best and will hear me. The color of my skin or the kink of my hair or the spread of my mouth has nothing to do with what you are listening to.

I prefer to leave standing up, like a well-mannered guest at a party.

Accomplishments have no color.

If I do have some success, I'd like to enjoy it, for heaven's sake! What is the point of having it otherwise?