The eyes of a poet discover in each person a unique and irreplaceable humanity. While arrogant intellect seeks to control and manipulate the world, the poetic spirit bows with reverence before its mysteries.

Having lived through the transition from totalitarianism, I am acutely mindful of the need to never take for granted the basic freedoms of thought, expression and belief that democracy brings.

Everything begins with the resolve to take the first step. From that action, wisdom arises and change begins. Without action, nothing changes.

No matter what our personal circumstances may be, if we ourselves become a source of light, then there will be no darkness in the world.

There are some among the so-called elite who are overbearing and arrogant. I want to foster leaders, not elitists.

Freedom doesn't mean the absence of all restrictions. It means possessing unshakable conviction in the face of any obstacle.

Like the ocean that remains calm in its depths even when waves rage over its surface, and like the sun that continues shining on high even during storms, we can at each moment create value and develop our state of life, enjoying our existence to the fullest in times of both suffering and joy.