What does Papa's advice to Cassie reveal about his character?

1) "There are things you can't back down on, things you gotta take a stand on. But it's up to you to decide what them things are."

2) "You have to demand rspect in this world, ain't nobody going to hand it to you."

3) "....ain't nobody's respect worth more than your own."

These pieces of advice reveal that Papa is a wise and gentle man.