Many of the gaps in my knowledge and understanding were simply limits of class and cultural background, not lack of aptitude or application as I feared. Page 135

I have come to believe that in order to thrive, a child must have at least one adult in her life who shows her unconditional love, respect, and confidence.

I was fifteen years old when I understood how it is that things break down: people can't imagine someone else's point of view.

Dressing badly has been a refuge much of my life, a way of compelling others to engage with my mind, not my physical presence. Page. 283

I would warn any minority student today against the temptations of self-segregation: take support and comfort from your own group as you can, but don’t hide within it.

In my experience when a friend unloaded about a boyfriend or spouse, the listener soaked up the complaint and remembered it long after the speaker had forgiven the offense.

[T]he more critical lesson I learned that day is still one too many kids never figure out: don't be shy about making a teacher of any willing party who knows what he or she is doing.

I couldn’t even tell if I had any sadness of my own, because I was so full of Abuelita’s sadness.

... a surplus of effort could overcome a deficit of confidence. Page 115

I accepted what the Sisters taught in religion class: that God is loving, merciful, charitable, forgiving. That message didn't jibe with adults smacking kids.

I've always believed phone calls from kids must be allowed if mothers are to feel welcome in the workplace, as anyone who has worked in my chambers can attest.

Let discernment be your trustee, and mistakes your teacher.

I wonder what the retirement age is in the novel business.The day you die.

The economics of the security world are all horribly, horribly nasty and are largely based on fear, intimidation and blackmail.

Balenciaga did the most delicious evening clothes. Clothes aren't delicious any more.

The saving principles and doctrines of the Church are established, fixed, and unchangeable.

Just because we are back home, don't get comfortable. Have that same uptight feeling like it's just us against everyone.

I really have branched out into areas where I'm totally uncertain, which is very exciting for me. I kind of like not knowing what I'm doing.

I have a tendency, especially when I'm playing with great players, to try and get them the ball.

In a study, scientists report that drinking beer can be good for the liver. I'm sorry, did I say 'scientists'? I meant Irish people.

I see the beauty of God's archetypal infinity reflected in the towers of infinities in set theory