I saw Islam as the correct way to live, and I chose to try to live that way.

Islam is about finding your own space.

Even when there are adverse circumstances, I try to do my job. And I usually do.

I think race has been a burden for black Americans. Being Muslim has also been a challenge because so many people do not understand Islam.

The '80s made up for all the abuse I took during the '70s. I outlived all my critics. By the time I retired, everybody saw me as a venerable institution. Things do change.

The word 'leukemia' is a very frightening word. In many instances, it's a killer and it's something that you have to deal with in a very serious and determined way if you're going to beat it.