I often wish my mother had died so that at least I could get some people's sympathy. But there she was, a perfectly beautiful mother.

What surprises me is-even though discrimination against women and racial discrimination still exist, they have improved a lot, especially among artists. And just when I felt I could finally take a break, I encounter the age discrimination. I turned 72 and started noticing a drastic difference in people's attitudes. I started with racism and sexism in the beginning and fought them so hard and was finally ready to relax. Then, here comes ageism, and I feel like, "Give me a break!"

I realized that an artist seeking to tell the truth in her art takes great courage. I recognize the courage required to bring children together from Israeli and Palestinian communities to find commonality in music as a very powerful and effective beginning towards Peace.

When Orientals are attacked, they don't hit back.

Events are the best teacher for us. You try to learn from people, there is always some bend to it.

Remember, each one of us has the power to change the world. Just start thinking peace, and the message will spread quicker than you think.

If someone is unpleasant to you, draw a halo around his or her head in your mind. He/she is an angel who came to teach you something.