The man Martin Luther King Jr. once called "an apostle of peace and nonviolence" has been a teacher, writer and vocal opponent of war. Read a few words of wisdom from Thich Nhat Hanh here. Then, tune in this Sunday for Oprah's full interview with Thich Nhat Hanh on "Super Soul Sunday" May 6 at 11/10c!

"Freedom is not given to us by anyone; we have to cultivate it ourselves. It is a daily practice... No one can prevent you from being aware of each step you take or each breath in and breath out." 

"People have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of a fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar."

"Enlightenment is always there. Small enlightenment will bring great enlightenment. If you breathe in and are aware that you are alive—that you can touch the miracle of being alive—then that is a kind of enlightenment."

"Many people are alive but don't touch the miracle of being alive."

Read more inspirational quotes from Thich Nhat Hanh