“She says that on the day you stop believing in love you may as will lie down and die. I think she may be right.”

“Makes you grow up quick. Hard work makes you strong. I work hard every day; that's where I get my strength. That and knowing who I am.”

“The people you love never leave you ...”

“I want you to think. Gawd got his special purpose for you, just like He does for every one of us. He done give you a very good mind. The world you have when you grow up is gonna be the one you make. You use your mind and make it better.”

“Say your prayers, girl. Prayers work miracles; don't you see that much yet?”

“The most important thing I learned is that to be truly happy, you've got to pay attention to that stupid inner voice we all have. It knows what you need and will drive you shit crazy until you listen to it.”

“Life is a struggle, I would tell him. Some days are better than others, and every person's life is bittersweet, filled with joy and pain.”