In olden times when there was a war, it was a human-to-human confrontation. The victor in battle would directly see the blood and suffering of the defeated enemy. Nowadays, it is much more terrifying because a person in an office can push a button and kill millions of people and never see the human tragedy that he or she has created. The mechanization of war, the mechanization of human conflict, poses an increasing threat to peace.

At a personal level, as a Buddhist practitioner, I deliberately visualize and think about death in my daily practice. Death is not separated from our lives. Due to my research and thoughts about death, I have some guarantee and some conviction that it will be a positive experience.

I often tease young people about their concern for how they look; more important is inner beauty - compassion, affection and respect.

In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.

A mind wishing to benefit other people and other sentient beings is the very basis of peace and happiness.

If science proves some belief of Buddhism wrong, then Buddhism will have to change.

I pray for a more friendly, more caring, and more understanding human family on this planet. To all who dislike suffering, who cherish lasting happiness, this is my heartfelt appeal.