When you're given an opportunity to change your life, be ready to do whatever it takes to make it happen. The world doesn't give things, you take things. If you learn one thing from me, it should probably be that.
-- Evelyn (Introduction)

Importance: Evelyn begins her story by mentioning the fact that she used her first husband, Ernie Diaz, for a ride to Hollywood. She uses this moment as an opportunity to offer some advice to Monique about ambition. Monique will later use this advice to negotiate with her editor for a promotion and a raise. This is one instance that shows what a profound influence Evelyn is for Monique.

You run toward a world that is moral and just, where the good guys win and the bad guys lose, where the pain you face is only in an effort to make you stronger, so that you can win that much bigger in...
-- Evelyn (Poor Ernie Diaz)