In chapter 8 of Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry,

Papa says to Cassie, “…There are things you can’t back down on.  But it’s up to you to decide what them things are…”

He also says, “You have to demand respect in this world, ain’t nobody just gonna hand it to you.  How you carry yourself, what you stand for—that’s how you gain respect.  But, little one, ain’t nobody’s respect worth more than your own.” 

What does he mean by these two statements?  Is Papa’s advice still valuable today?  How is his advice applicable to your own life?

Write at least ten lines.