The skeptics who say it can't be done are simply in extremely limited states of mind. They can't even perceive the possibility of anybody doing something that they can't do.

If you want to become enlightened, you've got to get all the bullshit out of your life. You have to clear up your mind completely.

The practice of meditation is emptying the mind. When the mind is empty, completely empty, it's perfect meditation. It's really that simple.

The Buddhist message is a message not of the negation of life, but one of affirmation.

The absorption in nirvana is all that matters. All the strategies of your life are only there to empower you for your final assault on the impenetrable cliffs of forever.

You might say living in a monastery cuts down the commutation time. That alone gives you a couple extra hours a day to meditate. In a monastery you lead a relatively simply life. You don't need a lot of possessions.

Meditate. Look at the candle flame - or whatever object you have chosen to gaze upon - with intensity.