My overriding belief is that it is always possible for criminals to improve and that by its very finality the death penalty contradicts this.

We have to make a sustained effort, again and again, to cultivate the positive aspects within us.

We don't need to respond with desperate violence.

If you wish to experience peace, provide peace for another.

I always tell my Western friends that it is best to keep your own tradition. Changing religion is not easy and sometimes causes confusion. You must value your tradition and honor your own religion.

When we are motivated by compassion and wisdom, the results of our actions benefit everyone, not just our individual selves or some immediate convenience. When we are able to recognize and forgive ignorant actions of the past, we gain strength to constructively solve the problems of the present.

Whether you call it Buddhism or another religion, self-discipline, that's important. Self-discipline with awareness of consequences.