Looking back upon my work today, I think the best I have done grew out of things deeply felt, the worst from a pride in mere talent.

As an artist I have always tried to be faithful to my vision of life, and I have frequently been in conflict with those who wanted me to paint not what I saw but what they wished me to see.

I knew how one climbing the mountain of worldly success can slip down into the river below without being conscious of the descent till he is already drowning.

Should you shield the canyons from the windstorms you would never see the true beauty of their carvings.

The only wealth that mattered was affinity and generosity. Affinity towards oneself and generosity towards the world itself.

No story is worth telling without the twists and turns. Make them count instead.

His (the writer's) standard of fidelity to the truth should be so high that his invention, out of his experience, should produce a truer account than anything factual can be.

He who is grateful doesn't suffer.

Coal makes us sick. Oil makes us sick. It’s global warming. It’s ruining our country. It’s ruining our world.

Most blacks will argue that they excel because of hard work, because of intellect, determination, sweat, blood, tears and risk.

When I feel hurt, I fully experience my emotions (and don't make them anyone else's problem!). Then I question my thoughts, examining my belief system and meeting the reality of life.

Always treat your employees exactly as you want them to treat your best customers.

All love's pleasure shall not match its woe.