Instead of trying to cover the whole world with leather, put on some sandals.

All the suffering in the world comes from seeking pleasure for oneself. All the happiness in the world comes from seeking pleasure for others.

It is not possible to control all external events; But, if I simply control my mind what need is there to control other things?

As long as space abides and as long as the world abides, so long may I abide, destroying the sufferings of the world.

All those who are unhappy in the world are so as a result of their desire for their own happiness. All those who are happy in the world are so as a result of their desire for the happiness of others.

It is natural for the immature to harm others. Getting angry with them is like resenting a fire for burning.

May those whose hell it is to hate and hurt be turned into lovers bringing flowers.

May the pain of every living creature be completely cleared away. May I be the doctor and the medicine and may I be the nurse for all sick beings in the world until everyone is healed.

We are all slaves of our own actions. Why be angry with anyone else?

All the harm, fear, and suffering in the world are caused by attachment to the self: Why should I hold on to this great demon?

How wonderful will it be when all beings experience each other as limbs on the one body of life.

Me as a woman liking myself, is an act of social defiance!

Some things exist whether you believe in them or not

Or that other bullshit, 'I need more space.' People never quantify exactly how much space they need, but strangely enough it always seems to be the exact same height, depth, and breadth as you.

I never thought I would live long enough to see the legal profession change to the extent it has.

Develop craftsmanship through years of wide reading.

I met a lot of great people in Saudi Arabia and I'd like to see them again. And I'd love to spend more time in the desert and in the mountains. I felt really at home there.

Garrison Keillor read several of my poems on 'The Writer's Almanac' and I've heard from listeners nationally and internationally. That's one of the great gifts of email.

We can destroy only as creators

Every word, every character in a picture book must count.

You have to evolve as an artist, and this is really a lifelong process.