The basic problem, actually, is how to get rid of the idea that we're going to get rid of our problems. Only then can we relate directly with the real issues of our life.

Let me give you a wonderful Zen practice. Wake up in the morning...look in the mirror, and laugh at yourself.

Our tendency in life is to avoid things that frighten us. But in order to become whole, we need to go deeper and deeper into ourselves by reaching further and further into the things we fear.

When we don't ask, we don't let others give. When we fear rejection, we don't let generosity arise.

In every area, working with what you habitually reject is one of the best ways to facilitate growth and transformation.

Our work may be important, but we don't take it too seriously. Otherwise, we get attached to one relatively small thing and ignore the rest of life.

Take the selfishness out of anger and you're left with determination.

We're creating a little niche for ourselves instead of working the whole canvas.

The pursuit of enlightenment is for the purpose of the world, not merely for the purpose of the individual. Practices for enlightenment must lead to action in the world.

People get stuck a lot because they're afraid to act; in the worst case,...we get so attached to some end result that we can't function. We need help just to move on, only life doesn't wait.

Look in the mirror, and laugh at yourself.

I sincerely feel that beauty largely comes from within.

People’s feelings are easily swayed. The things reflected in people’s eyes are full of deception. Nothing is as it appears.

To get up in the morning, wash and then wait for some unforeseen variety of dread or depression. I would give the whole universe and all of Shakespeare for a grain of ataraxy.

The more completely you concentrate, the stronger your mind becomes.

The complaint of bad pay, and difficulty in obtaining it, is almost generally reiterated through every department of education.

Ah, there’s the governess voice. All stern and disapproving. It makes me feel like a naughty schoolboy.

Many of our problems are blessings in disguise.

If I had to choose between a great acting job and a good directing job, I'd choose the directing job.

Was genius ever ungrateful? Mere talents are dry leaves, tossed up and down by gusts of passion, and scattered and swept away; but, Genius lies on the bosom of Memory, and Gratitude at her feet.