MAYTE GARCIA

People would tell me, especially after my marriage to Prince, 'You need to write a book because you've had a crazy life.'

Prince never, ever mentioned it except to say he wished he was taller so he could play basketball. He was actually a really great basketball player.

My past was so amazing. It's that fine line of appreciating it and letting it go. I have my animal rescue, and I have my daughter and my family that helped me move forward.

For many years, people have encouraged me to share my story. Prince was loved the world over, but few knew him intimately. And ours was a rare, almost otherworldly connection.

Patience pays off.

I never called him Prince because I wanted him to be a person to me, not the man behind 'Purple Rain'. Plus, technically, I was married to the Symbol... When we got married, it was much easier. If someone else was there, I could say, 'Could I speak to my husband, please?'

To lose two babies is really scary. It really caught on me emotionally, physically, everything. It took me at least 15 years to get over it and still, to this day, I miss my son.

I think I'm now screwed for life because my first relationship was the most bizarre relationship ever, and I'm not normal any more. I've kind of been spoiled, and I guess I am kind of screwed up now.

For years, my marriage to Prince was mine. The idea of exposing myself to the world... was terrifying.

When I got divorced, it was another culture shock. It was going from this world I had been into since the age of 16 to literally standing on the streets of New York in kind of shock.

Any kind of loss helps when you talk about it.

People say that forgiving is my flaw, but I really believe that holding grudges and anger is a waste of energy.

Prince didn't want to celebrate birthdays but to live life, to elevate and educate to the next level of enlightenment.

Sleep is over-rated. When you're creating, travelling, and having the best time of your life the last thing on your mind is sleep.

I've been making notes of my life, but when it finally came time to write it, it took me back, and I cried many tears. But I also think that it's liberating.

I just don't like to have bad energy with people.

As you all know, Prince is no longer with us. It is extremely difficult for me, and that is why I have chosen not to discuss it.

For me, Minneapolis will always have a special place in my heart.

Like most women, I always dreamed of becoming a mother.

I believe a child dying between a couple either makes you stronger, or it doesn't.

I have faith that I'll find love again, and if I don't, I'm okay with that.

Find something you're passionate about, and focus on it.

I basically gave up my dream of becoming a mom.

If you have a guy over, and there's a whole bunch of china from your wedding, it's not a good idea.

I'd always been a very focused dancer and very protected.