1. My parents have taught me since I was a child never to judge others about who they love, the color of their skin or their religious beliefs. Use your power to do good, not to harm others. We don’t have to agree with everyone, but we do have to respect others. When you see others spreading hate, speak up. Tell them that hatred is such a waste of life, and that believing in yourself can help them open their eyes and reflect.

2. I had to work very hard to get a record deal. I

had to spend years to be good at it. I had to practice to play the guitar well, and after writing the first Before I can get a good song, I have to write a hundred not-so-good songs.

3. Even if you are happy with the life you have chosen, you are still curious about other options in life. People are never satisfied.

4. In school, you don’t want to be different because that makes you look weird. But what makes you weird also makes you different.

5. I have never used songwriting as a weapon, they are just a way to help me get over the loss of love, sadness and loneliness. I don't write songs on purpose, they just come to me when I wake up at 4 a.m., talking to someone, taking a long bus ride, shopping at the mall, or in the airport restroom.

6. Oh, God! Do you think I don't know about these rumors? When I'm overwhelmed, all I can do is tell myself to calm down. If others say you are pregnant, you will always be clear about it, because after 9 months you are not pregnant yet. If others tell you to buy a house, you don’t have to be afraid, because you will never appear in those houses.