Government leaders are amazing. So often it seems they are the last to know what the people want.

There is no hope without endeavor.

Leaders of political parties need to keep in contact with the people; that's what it's all about. If violence were to erupt, I am fairly confident that we could control our people. Whether or not the authorities can control theirs is another matter altogether.

Democracy is when the people keep a government in check.

With the right kind of institutions, starting with the rule of law, Burma could progress very quickly.

Those who have to face persistent political persecution become highly politicized. Our lives take on a rhythm different from those who, on waking up in the morning, do not need to wonder who might have been arrested during the night and what further acts of blatant injustice might be committed against our people later during the day. Our antennae become highly sensitive to vibrations barely noticed by those whose everyday existence is removed from political struggle.

You should never let your fears prevent you from doing what you know is right.