The Timeless Wisdom of Willie Nelson: 13 Quotes That Inspire, Entertain, and Make You Think. ML

At a time when we’ve lost so many legends, we’re grateful that Willie Nelson is still going strong at 91. He’s had troubles with the tax man, smoked pot at the White House, and been married four times. And he’s given the world some remarkable music.

Words matter to Willie. “If you can make someone feel better with just a few words, why wouldn’t you want to use them?” he says.

But he also remarked, “Be gentle with your words – you can’t take them back.”

As we celebrate the release of Willie Nelson’s 75th solo album, The Border, we remember the wise words that Willie has given the world.

Here are our 13 favourite Willie Nelson quotes:

“My doctor tells me I should start slowing it down, but there are more old drunks than there are old doctors, so let’s all have another round.”

“You know why divorces are so expensive? They’re worth it.”

“It doesn’t hurt to feel sad from time to time.”

“Don’t forget the less fortunate, or God will personally kick your ass. I’d love to do it for him, but I can’t be everywhere.”

“The early bird gets the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese.”

“You’ll never get ahead by blaming your problems on other people.”

“If you really want to get along with somebody, let them be themselves.”

“If you’re not crazy there’s something wrong with you.”

“Ninety-nine per cent of the world’s lovers are not with their first choice. That’s what makes the jukebox play.”

“Be here. Be present. Wherever you are, be there.”

“I think it is just terrible and disgusting how everyone has treated Lance Armstrong, especially after what he achieved, winning seven Tour de France races while on drugs. When I was on drugs, I couldn’t even find my bike.”

“When it’s on us, seems like the storm will never pass. But it always does.”

“If you’ve made your own hell, then only you have the power to escape it.”

And finally, Willie says: “Three chords and the truth – that’s what a country song is.”