“I’ve discovered that in lengthy prison terms, sensitive people are in danger of becoming embittered, developing grudges against the world, growing dull, indifferent and selfish. One of my main aims is to not yield an inch to such threats, regardless of how long I’m here. I want to remain open to the world, not to shut myself up against it; I want to retain my interest in other people and my love for them. I have different opinions of different people, but I cannot say I hate anyone in the world. I have no intention of changing in that regard. If I did, it would mean I had lost. Hatred has never been either my program, or the point of departure for my actions. And that must not change.”
— Václav Havel