“My father... gave me a positive connection with men because he is a gentleman.”

“Beauty is being comfortable and confident in your own skin.”

“On my 50th birthday in 2005, my discount-wielding AARP card came in the mail. I hurled it in the trash, put on something fabulous, and had a decadent meal. Just the thought of putting it in my wallet felt like a concession.”

“My father... gave me a positive connection with men because he is a gentleman.”

“There is no age better than another. The commitment to give of yourself and the knowledge that the time is right are what's important.”

“The difference between rearing a child in your 20s and one in your 50s is one of patience.”

“I wasn't a major in political science for nothing, so I understood the politics of beauty and the politics of race when it comes to the fashion industry.”

“After the bones mended, my left eye was smaller than my right, and my eyebrow never grew back. But you know what? Big deal. I think I became beautiful after the accident. I became kinder, more aware. I gained respect for other people.”

“Never give up! And write for yourself first and foremost.”

“Accept yourself, love yourself.”

“Find creative ways to express your love.”