George Lucas, the film innovator, auteur, and genius behind “Star Wars,” turned 72 on Saturday, May 14. In honor of his birthday, here are seven inspiring quotes of his on innovation, technology, and America.

1) If America is the pursuit of happiness, the best way to pursue happiness is to help other people. Because there’s nothing else that will make you happy. You can be as rich, and famous, and powerful as you want to be, and it will not bring you happiness. … This is a 5,000 year old idea, and every prophet, every intelligent, rational, successful person has said it. It’s a very, very simple idea and the most important part of it is, true.  (Academy of Achievement interview.)

2) I had a problem: a story I wanted to tell… So I went and found the technology to do it. In the process of making “Star Wars” there weren’t any visual effects houses so I had to invent one. (Sundance Film Festival.)

Read more from  Happy Birthday, George Lucas! 7 Great Quotes From the Great Innovator.