Until he extends his circle of compassion to include all living things, man will not himself find peace.

I do not want to frighten you by telling you about the temptations life will bring. Anyone who is healthy in spirit will overcome them. But there is something I want you to realize. It does not matter so much what you do. What matters is whether your soul is harmed by what you do. If your soul is harmed, something irreparable happens, the extent of which you won't realize until it will be too late.

Any religion or philosophy which is not based on a respect for life is not a true religion or philosophy.

You know of the disease in Central Africa called sleeping sickness. . . . There also exists a sleeping sickness of the soul. Its most dangerous aspect is that one is unaware of its coming. That is why you have to be careful. As soon as you notice the slightest sign of indifference, the moment you become aware of the loss of a certain seriousness, of longing, of enthusiasm and zest, take it as a warning. You should realize your soul suffers if you live superficially.

To work for the common good is the greatest creed.

The only ones who will find real happiness are those who find a way to serve

Joy, sorrow, tears, lamentation, laughter -- to all these music gives voice