People ask me about what sacrifices I've made. I always answer: I've made no sacrifices, I've made choices.

I've always been strongly on the side of non-violence. Also, I think that if you use the wrong means, the ends themselves get distorted.

How can you call it a sacrifice when you choose to do something because you believe in it?

I don't like to be called a symbol. And I don't like to be called an icon. I will just say that I have to work very, very hard. So I'd rather be known as a hard worker. I don't think symbols do much, nor icons.

The [Burmese] government appears to be more interested in stamping out political activity than drug addiction. Very few university students on the campus could get away with engaging in political activities, but they seem to be able to get away with taking drugs. We have heard that it is very easy to obtain drugs on the university campuses.

I've always thought that the best solution for those who feel helpless is for them to help others.

There is nothing to be gained by being unnecessarily nasty. Violence begets violence.