"When too many Americans don't vote or participate, some see apathy and despair. I see disappointment and even outrage. And I believe that out of this frustration can come hope and action."

"I emphasize self-esteem, self-confidence, and dignity, not as an ideal, but as a real test of community organization. Without leadership development, community organizations do not have staying power."

"Education and democracy have the same goal: the fullest possible development of human capabilities."

"Politics is about the improvement of people's lives. It's about advancing the cause of peace and justice in our country and the world. Politics is about doing well for the people."

"I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally; I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it."

"Do not wait for favorable winds; take the oars and row toward your horizon. Such is the immutable nature of understanding — an essential principle for the reflective life."

"Time is the most impartial judge; it reveals all pretenses and rewards all patience."

"The harmony of the universe dictates that kindness can heal wounds that time cannot."