The challenges I have faced - among them material poverty, chronic illness, and being raised by a single mother - are not uncommon, but neither have they kept me from uncommon achievements.

Every lawyer, no matter whom they represent, is trying to help someone, whether it's a person, a corporation, a government entity, or a small or big business. To me, lawyering is the height of service - and being involved in this profession is a gift.

I hope in my book [My Beloved World], that the sense that I really feel connected comes through.

Although wisdom is built on life experiences, the mere accumulation of years guarantees nothing.

Oh my God, I don't think you can say anyone looks forward to controversy.

I was a keen observer and listener. I picked up on clues. I figured things out logically, and I enjoyed puzzles. I loved the clear, focused feeling that came when I concentrated on solving a problem and everything else faded out.

You make your life choices understanding that you might and do have to work harder to prove yourself.