Quotations

Hayao Miyazaki on Emptiness

We have a word for that in Japanese. It’s called ma. Emptiness. It’s there intentionally. (claps hands) The time in between my clapping is ma. If you just have non-stop action with no breathing space at all, it’s just busyness. But if you take a moment, then the tension building…can grow into a wider dimension. If you just have constant tension all the time you just get numb… What really matters is the underlying emotions…that you never let go of those.

Recommended reading: Starting Point, 1979-1996

Oscar Wilde on achievement

In this world there are only two tragedies: One is not getting what one wants, and the other is getting it.

J.D. McClatchy on Love

Love is the quality of attention we pay to things.

Recommended reading: Love Speaks Its Name

F. Scott Fitzgerald on friendliness

It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light it scattered the night and made the day worth living.

Recommended reading: F. Scott Fitzgerald: Classic Works

Maya Angelou on Resilience

I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.

Recommended reading: I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings.

Haruki Murakami on kindness

Always remember that to argue, and win, is to break down the reality of the person you are arguing against. It is painful to lose your reality, so be kind, even if you are right.

Recommended reading: The Wind-up Bird Chronicle.

James Clear on challenges

An easy life fashions a mind that can only handle ease. A challenging life builds a mind that can handle challenge. Like a muscle that atrophies without use, mental strength fades unless it is tested. When life doesn’t challenge you, challenge yourself.