“We’re stepping into a new world, and an entire way of thinking must be changed. But the old ideas can’t be easily discarded. Like a pendulum, new ways must swing to the other side before returning.”

“Just remember that life is made up of change. We can’t run away from it.”

“Success is not handed to you. You must work hard for it and you must never dishonor what you’ve achieved.”

“Mothers and their children are in a category all their own. There's no bond so strong in the entire world. No love so instantaneous and forgiving.”

“Just remember, Every day of your lives, you must always be sure what you’re fighting for.”

“Near the gardens, Pei stopped and caught her breath. She liked sweet-voiced Song Lee and hoped for the best in dealing with the other sisters, but Pei rememered all too well the different personalities that had affected her life, first at the girls' house, then at the silk factory and sisters' house. Dealing with so many people was often like playing a game of chess. There were so many pieces, all moving in different directions. It was always wise to guard all sides against capture.”

“Sometimes you can’t let go of the past without facing it again.”