I didn't want to say "No" because I didn't want people to think I'm not nice. And that, to me, has been the greatest lesson of my life: to recognize that I am solely responsible for it, and not trying to please other people, and not living my life to please other people, but doing what my heart says all the time.

Getting my library card was like citizenship; it was like American citizenship.

It's only when you make the process your goal that the big dream can follow.

One percent doubt is zero percent faith.

I still love church. My favorite church service is T.D. Jakes at the Potter's House. I don't think there is a better preacher in the country. His ability to interpret scripture is like no other.

Everybody matters. Everyone just wants to be heard.

I try to take every conflict, every experience, and learn from it