It's kind of fun to do the impossible.

You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do. 

There is no point in strengthening the foundation of a house whose roof has caved in.

Dignity does not consist in possessing honors, but in deserving them.

In poverty and other misfortunes of life, true friends are a sure refuge. The young they keep out of mischief; to the old they are a comfort and aid in their weakness, and those in the prime of life they incite to noble deeds.

You see, God helps only people who work hard. That principle is very clear.

No real change in history has ever been achieved by discussion.

I am in the world feeling my way to light 'amid the encircling gloom.'

When you are discontent, you always want more, more, more. Your desire can never be satisfied. But when you practice contentment, you can say to yourself, 'Oh yes - I already have everything that I really need.'

To have a great idea, have a lot of them.

Three things cannot be long hidden: the sun, the moon, and the truth.

If I had remained in Lhasa, even without the Chinese occupation, I would probably have carried the ceremonial role in some orthodox way.