We have made a great effort to maintain all levels of Buddhist education; it has helped us have a kind of renaissance, really.

The fact that there is always a positive side to life is the one thing that gives me a lot of happiness.

Compassion is the radicalism of our time.

Overcoming negative tendencies and enhancing positive potential are the very essence of the spiritual path.

I find that because of modern technological evolution and our global economy, and as a result of the great increase in population, our world has greatly changed: it has become much smaller. However, our perceptions have not evolved at the same pace; we continue to cling to old national demarcations and the old feelings of 'us' and 'them'.

We need a little more compassion, and if we cannot have it, then no politician or even a magician can save the planet.

The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self.