Independence is a heady draught, and if you drink it in your youth, it can have the same effect on the brain as young wine does. It does not matter that its taste is not always appealing. It is addictive and with each drink you want more.

The thorn from the bush one has planted, nourished and pruned pricks more deeply and draws more blood.

When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature.

Love is that condition in the human spirit so profound that it allows me to survive, and better than that, to thrive with passion, compassion, and style.

We are not our brother’s keeper we are our brother and we are our sister. We must look past complexion and see community.

Hoping for the best, prepared for the worst, and unsurprised by anything in between.

If you happen to fall in love with someone in another race, it's more difficult, because you have to translate yourself.