It would be difficult to dispel ignorance unless there is freedom to pursue the truth unfettered by fear.

After I was released, people used to keep asking me, 'what's it like to be free? And it was very difficult for me to answer. I'd always felt free. As far as my state of mind was concerned, I didn't feel any different...People ask me about what sacrifices I've made. I always answer: I've made no sacrifices, I've made choices.

In Burma, under the present Constitution, the Army can always take over all parts of government if they think this is necessary. so until the Army comes out clearly and consistently in support of the democratic process we cannot say that it's irreversible. But I don't think we need fear a reversal too much either.

The best way to help Burma is to empower the people of Burma, to help us have enough self-confidence to obtain what we want for ourselves.

I think sometimes if you are alone, you are freer because your time is your own.

If suffering were an unavoidable part of our existence, we should try to alleviate it as far as possible in practical, earthly ways.

I think by now I have made it fairly clear that I am not very happy with the word hope. I don't believe in people just hoping.