Olympism is not a system - it is a state of mind. This state of mind has emerged from a double cult: that of effort and that of Eurythmy - a taste of excess and a taste of measure combined.

The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.

The heart of our problem is the selfishness in our heart. The human spirit soars with hope when lifted by an encouraging word. The important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle.

The Olympic Spirit is neither the property of one race nor of one age.

A better world could be brought about only by better individuals.

Olympism seeks to create a way of life based on the joy found in effort, the educational value of a good example and respect for universal fundamental ethical principles.

For each individual, sport is a possible source for inner improvement

Olympism... exalting and combining in a balanced whole the qualities of body, mind and will.

The important thing in life is not victory but combat; it is not to have vanquished but to have fought well.

Winning medals wasn't the point of the Olympics. It's the participating that counts.

The essential thing in life is not so much conquering as fighting well.

There is no good arguing with the inevitable. The only argument available with an east wind is to put on your overcoat.

I doubt I'll be singing forever, because at some point people aren't going to want to hear my music, and I hope that I'll still get the opportunity to write songs.

For pride is spiritual cancer: it eats up the very possibility of love, or contentment, or even common sense.

Money is made at Christmas out of holly and mistletoe, but who save the vendors would greatly care if no green branch were procurable?

I have to pick myself up every day and say, 'The show must go on,' meaning life as I know it must go on, whatever the obstacle is, I know I can handle it, and I can get through it.

The computer is here to stay, therefore it must be kept in its proper place as a tool and a slave, or we will become sorcerer's apprentices, with data data everywhere and not a thought to think.

We do not heal the past by dwelling there. We heal the past by living in the present.

You can't ride home on a bowl of goat.

In the last five years I used to go to Zen practice once a month, but since I assumed the post of prime minister it's been much harder.

Now it really is, believe it or not, 90% of the films are green lit, not by the studio heads, but by the marketing department.