I work hard at it [delivery of lyrics], just like I worked hard at getting my masters degree. It's not just something I sit down and do. You have to learn and keep learning.

The first revolution is when you change your mind

Man is a complex being: he makes deserts bloom - and lakes die.

Nobody can do everything, but everybody can do something.

America .. the international Jekyll and Hyde ... the land of a thousand disguises, sneaks up on you but rarely surprises

If someone comes to you and asks for help, and you can help them, you're supposed to help them. Why wouldn't you? You have been put in the position somehow to be able to help this person.

The way you get to know yourself is by the expressions on other people's faces, because that's the only thing that you can see, unless you carry a mirror about.

Music has the power to make me feel good like nothing else does. It gives me some peace for a while. Takes me back to who I really am.

The revolution will be no re-run brothers, The revolution will be live.

I don't mind being criticized. I enjoy being criticized personally, not by rumor.

A good poet feels what his community feels. Like if you stub your toe, the rest of your body hurts.

Mama, don't forget to put a little monument on my tomb when I'm dead.

The thoughts that go through your mind when you find out you have so little time is everything that you need to say to everyone that you love.

One can't learn much and also be comfortable One can't learn much and let anybody else be comfortable

One of the strengths of this country has been our diversity. One of the strengths of this country has been the fact that we are a nation of immigrants.

You have to refine your being. You have to go through all of the stages and steps of erasing yourself through service to others with purity, humility, integrity.

A man's sense of self is defined through his ability to achieve results.

What to do when inspiration doesn't come; be careful not to spook, get the wind up, force things into position. You must wait around until the idea comes.

My greatest responsibility is to acknowledge the mistakes and the shortcomings of the country in which I live, to acknowledge my privileges, and to try to make it a better place.

Sometimes two people could look at the same picture and see different images. Position determines perspective.

My Master used to say, when a pitcher is being filled (by immersion), it gurgles, but when full, it is noiseless.