I know what falling off the cliff means. I know from being considered a very bright kid to being considered like a moron and dropping out of school.

We all think we're different, but when it comes around, we end up needing the same things. Somebody to love us. Somebody to respect us.

The idea of voluntary segregation went against every value I had been taught. What did being born black have to do with excellence?

I admired the work ethic of the cowboys I read about. The idea of these young people taking on this much responsibility was impressive. I would like modern readers to have an appreciation of this.

My life is not packaged, Not tidy. There are leftover strands and jagged Edges that cut even my friends.

To fight for one's country, to offer one's very life to promote the well being of the United States, is truly a noble undertaking. But so is the vigilance of the citizen who carefully examines our leaders to see if political problems are being solved by wars simply because this seems to be the easiest solution.

Reading is not optional.