I just strive to do better. Every time I meet somebody, I ask myself, "How can I help this person?"

It's not nice to make fun of people with issues.

Every day after school, for three hours a day, I would sell those pralines on the street corner. I was just eight years old. I'd bring the money home to my parents and say, "This is just the beginning."

I have two rules for living in the world. I never say anything negative about anyone, because that won't get you anywhere. And two, if people confront me with certain questions, if they are not right, I will not answer them.

We're all in trouble, and we all need to sort of pick up the pieces and start to exercise more and really be careful with the food.

Stop trying to find something in food that will make you feel better. I used to have eating disorders; I'd binge and purge all the time: fried oysters, po' boys, muffulettas, beignets, coffee and doughnuts. I tried to medicate myself with food when people made fun of me or hit me with a bat in school. I'd always turn to food.

I hope in my lifetime we can all continue to laugh at ourselves and not put down anyone for what they weigh.