If the basic human nature was aggressive, we would have been born with animal claws & huge teeth -- but ours are very short, very pretty, very weak! That means we are not well equipped to be aggressive beings. Even the size of our mouth is very small. So I think the basic nature of human beings should be gentle.

Compassion can be put into practice if one recognizes the fact that every human being is a member of humanity and the human family regardless of differences in religion, culture, color and creed. Deep down there is no difference.

We have global communication and yet confrontation is more common than dialogue.

The period of greatest gain in knowledge and experience is the most difficult period in one's life.

Scientists may study mainly matter but they cannot ignore the human mind, or consciousness: spiritual practitioners may be engaging mainly in developing the mind but they cannot completely ignore their physical needs. It is for this reason that I have always stressed the importance of combining both mental and the material approach to achieving happiness for humankind.

A genuine transformation that results from sustained concerted effort is long lasting because it has a firm foundation.

If the mind is tranquil and occupied with positive thoughts, the body will not easily fall prey to disease