“Young people need models, not critics.”

“We are role models to a lot of young people, not just African Americans and soldiers.”

“Be a light, not a judge. Be a model, not a critic”

“People who avoid all criticism fail. It's destructive criticism we need to avoid, not criticism in all forms.”

“A society needs famous people; the question is whom it chooses for that role. Any criticism of its choice is by implication a criticism of that society.”

“We need a renewed emphasis on civic learning in schools. And our young people need positive role models. Bullying and prejudice in our public life sets a national tone, provides permission for cruelty and bigotry, and compromises the moral education of children. The only way to pass along civic values is to first live up to them.”

“I don’t think young people need to see the face of the deceased.”

“I believe in recovery, and as a role model I have the responsibility to let young people know that you can make a mistake and come back from it.”

“The secret to modeling is not being perfect. What one needs is a face that people can identify in a second. You have to be given what’s needed by nature, and what’s needed is to bring something new.”

“The Nordic welfare model is in many aspects a good model but it needs more of a choice for individuals.”