The quality of strength lined with tenderness is an unbeatable combination, as are intelligence and necessity when unblunted by formal education.

Today, the first & last of every Tree/ Speaks to humankind. Come to me, here beside the River.

I know some people might think it odd - unworthy even - for me to have written a cookbook, but I make no apologies. The U.S. poet laureate Billy Collins thought I had demeaned myself by writing poetry for Hallmark Cards, but I am the people's poet so I write for the people.

We need to haunt the house of history and listen anew to the ancestors' wisdom.

I have risked everything to tell the truth. Tell the truth

If more Africans had eaten missionaries, the continent would be in better shape.

I'm interested in women's health because I'm a woman. I'd be a darn fool not to be on my own side.