In America, people are so busy. Even the children are busy. I get the impression very few of us are touching the miracle that you are alive.

My first day in Chicago, September 4, 1983. I set foot in this city, and just walking down the street, it was like roots, like the motherland. I knew I belonged here.

I have created a life by stepping out of the box of people's limitations. I call it zigging when others are zagging.

Every day brings a chance for you to draw in a breath, kick off your shoes, and dance.

When I woke up in the morning and look in the mirror I realise that one of the reasons I don't own a handgun is, I would have shot my thighs off years ago.

Education is the way to move mountains, to build bridges, to change the world. Education is the path to the future. I believe that education is indeed freedom.

Free speech not only lives, it rocks!