"We have the power to make the world we seek."
--President Obama, addressing the Muslim world in Cairo, Egypt.
The world is a system of things. We are the makers of this system and it is only us who will change it for the better the whole world over.
12 comments:
Wow, this is a powerful quote. I can certainly apply it to my own life. Obama is really reaching out to the Muslim world which is great.
I so agree, The Write Girl. I loved the fact that in his speech President Obama mentioned "Palestine." Maybe the US can now become an honest broker of peace for both the Jews and the Palestinians again.
I think this would be a great quote for a commencement speech. Our youth must feel that they can and should be the agents for peaceful, just change in this world.
Judith,
We have the power but do we have the will? Do we have the knowledge? Do we have the creativity? Words definitely define a destination, will our actions, attitudes, and ability get us there?
A mighty quote here! And, I respect and appreciate President Obama's intentions. I hope peace is restored soon.
septembermom - I love your "agents for peaceful, just change in teh world." Often times we want peace without justice. Yes, the quote is good for a commencement speech as well as a reminder for all of us of any age who desire to make the world a better place. Whatever I do is in an effort to to do good leave a good legacy for those who will come after us. Sometimes I may not be the best example and other times I am pleased with my efforts. But I try again and again to do better still.
Dave - With regards to President Obama's words, the speech was magnificent. I awoke after being up most of the night to catch it live and was so incredibly proud to be an American. The speech was necessary as a departure from a partisan prideful past that alienated the world. Words matter. Regarding our will, knowledge and creativity, leaders assist in instilling these qualities in a nation and President Obama's words and actions so far indicate that he is a doer and not just a speaker. Have we ever seen a more active president in recent history? With honest and open leadership and our desire to make a difference in the world, we can achieve much. Remember we are helpers one to another. Often what I lack you have and what you lack I can assist be it will, knowledge or creativity. How do we view others and are we will to build together? We need to also have road maps for the smallest to the largest desired change, locally, nationally and internationally and check them off as we achieve then and re-define them as things change around us. But make no mistake about it. President Obama's WORDS were indeed necessary at this time in his presidency and for America's image. In Iran the young people are incredibly move by the President so much so that the leaders there are not speaking ill of America. This is a decided change after our labeling of Iran as a part of the "axis of evil." This matters in restoring faith and opening up negotiations again.
Powerful quote indeed, Ajey. How can anyone NOT appreciate President Obama's intentions?
Hi Judith,
Thanks for your words. The speech was actually in Cairo, Egypt, where I grew up. It was addressed from Cairo University where I studied for a few years. He visited after his speech the pyramids and Sphinx.I was so happy and proud to have President Obama visiting Egypt.
Everyone in Egypt appreciated his efforts and his initiative towards the Muslim world. However, people is still questioning (from both sides)if peace would be restored or not in the middle east. Everyone agrees in Egypt that it is us (muslims and Arabs)to start with the first step as a good will.
I hope that President Obama could succeed in his efforts despite all the Specticism around his plans.
Your experiences are valued, Khaled--much appreciated. Uh, duh! I knew the location. I saw President Obama walking around the pyramids. Thanks for pointing this mistake out and I shall change it momentarily.
I loved the way the young people in the audience responded. Some student yelled out "I love you." Young people are our hope for peace and harmony. I think EVERYBODY realizes that President Obama's speech is a first step, BUT a very important one nonetheless.
It was a great speech with great intentions and a good response. Making the world new is not new. We thought we wee doing it in the 60s when JFK was driving the horses. And we did, a little bit, but obviously not enough. Ideals of peace must be held onto vigorously by a lot of people and no taking for granted. Complacency in the face of years is not permissable or we will fall into another military mess when those come back to power who haven't the courage to make peace. It's inevitable.
DB
DB - Thank you for those words. They are much appreciated. These are particularly profound for me:
"Complacency in the face of years is not permissable..."
Thanks again, dear sir.
Post a Comment