Nicole

“Stories help us ready ourselves. For joy, for sorrow, for growth. They teach us empathy. They let us practice being better humans.

Sadly battles over children's access to books have increasingly put librarians and teachers on the front lines. But in the end, locking up books always fails because words have wings. Stories, as Ivan comes to realize, have a way of taking flight one way or another....as long as we have free libraries and dedicated teachers, loving parents, and curious children, I know we'll be okay.”
― Katherine Applegate, The One and Only Family

“This stifling atmosphere will ultimately harm the most vital causes of our time. The restriction of debate, whether by a repressive government or an intolerant society, invariably hurts those who lack power and makes everyone less capable of democratic participation. The way to defeat bad ideas is by exposure, argument, and persuasion, not by trying to silence or wish it away.”
― Keith Simon, Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant

“Are your loves in the right order? Does your lover for the lamb transcend your love for the donkey or the elephant?”
― Keith Simon, Truth Over Tribe: Pledging Allegiance to the Lamb, Not the Donkey or the Elephant

“Once again, I'm reminded that it's possible to be happy and sad, worried and hopeful, confused and certain, all at the same time.

Especially when you love someone dearly.”
― Katherine Applegate, The One and Only Family