A woman who met challenges head-on, actress Katharine Hepburn (1907-2003) was born on this day and lived her life as a celebration of independence and self-esteem.

"If you’re given a choice between money and sex appeal, take the money," she advised. "As you get older, the money will become your sex appeal."

The winner of a record four Academy Awards in a career that spanned five decades, she once observed, "I can't say I believe in prizes. I was a whiz in the three-legged race - that's something you CAN win."

In Hollywood she defied the studio honchos, refused interviews, and wore slacks and no makeup. "Live it, do it, or shut up," she dared and made her own policies. "If you obey all the rules, you miss all the fun."

She nixed marriage after a failed attempt and carried on a 25-year affair with Spencer Tracy. "If you want to sacrifice the admiration of many men for the criticism of one, go ahead, get married," she offered.

Unconventional. Incomparable. Her performances were like no other. She was a college graduate, a chocoholic. A writer with a wealth of insight. "Loved people are loving people," she theorized.

Talented. Courageous. "Life is hard. After all, it kills you." She was born in Connecticut and retired there. "People have grown fond of me," she said with typical self-deprecating wit. "like some old building."

A classic building.

"You can't change the music of your soul," she believed. Through the years she remained true to the truth and beauty of its bold melody.

A classic soul.

More Katharine HEPBURN Quotations | Video: Hepburn on Dick Cavett

Rise to the challenges.