"For 25 years, it has been my privilege to represent the city of San Francisco and the great state of California; to work to strengthen our vibrant middle class; to secure opportunity and equality."

"Twenty years ago, I wrote a book called 'It Takes a Village.' And a lot of people looked at the title and asked, 'What the heck do you mean by that?' This is what I mean. None of us can raise a family, build a business, heal a community or lift a country totally alone."

"Our constitution is a ray of hope: H for harmony, O for Opportunity, P for people's participation and E for equality."

"Only the absolutely determined people succeed."

"I may not always be offered work, but I'll always have my family."

"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow."