We really are 15 countries, and it's remarkable that each of us thinks we represent the real America. The Midwesterner in Kansas, the black American in Durham - both are certain they are the real American.

Look heavenward and speak the word aloud. Peace. We look at our world and speak the word aloud. Peace.

I encourage you to live with life. Be courageous, adventurous. Give us a tomorrow, more than we deserve.

I answer the heroic question, 'Death, where is thy sting?' with 'It is in my heart and mind and memories.

Age is nothing; waking up is everything.

Whenever I'm around some who is modest, I think, 'Run like hell and all of fire.' You don't want modesty, you want humility.

Hold those things that tell your history and protect them. During slavery, who was able to read or write or keep anything? The ability to have somebody to tell your story to is so important. It says: 'I was here. I may be sold tomorrow. But you know I was here.'