I know the human being and the fish can coexist peacefully

We circled the nest, intrigued by the chirping of the tiny birds inside. Shouldn't they be in a tree instead of this tall grass? Certainly they needed to be rescued. We meant to devote every minute to them when we got them home. But something happened, and then something else... and then they didn't chirp anymore.
- 1952

The greyhound bus pulled to a labored stop in front of the diner. I went in, chose a hot dog and coke from the cafeteria offerings, and fished a dollar out of my coin purse. Elvis was singing "Don't be Cruel" on the radio. I was traveling alone and felt much wiser than my 12 years. I was excited that I would be back in Cleveland that same day.  I loved seeing my cousins in Charleston and basking in the southern sun, but I was homesick. That's when I noticed the man, his wife, and their children peering through the window of the diner. I didn't know... until someone told me...that they were looking for the "Colored" sign on a restroom door. I was ashamed. -1956

It was warm under the blanket as the car sped along. We sat as close together as possible in our bulky clothes. The wind swept over our flushed faces and whipped our hair. We were headed to Cedar Point, but I never wanted to get there. We were headed to adulthood too, but I didn't want to get there either. I was 17. The world was apple green. It was the happiest day of my young life. That's how love makes you feel.   - 1961

My freshman math book lay open on the desk where I had been studying for a midterm, but I was staring at the radio. The National Anthem was playing and in that instant I knew the truth. There would be no more false hope of mere injury and recovery. I knew at that moment that Kennedy had died. And a part of me died with him, or so I thought. - 1963