day -1
to explain that better, lets go back in time. the last few weeks, with about 40+ people working out of this office, the sound level had been so high that even with headphones (music turned up REAL high) you could hear mumbles...
now it's silent...:)
what's changed? opening ceremony is less that 24 hours away. the delegates are here...and we're running around non-stop!!
anyway...this isn't why i posted. today we got a very interesting letter in the email...
"During the 20th century, human society underwent great changes. Some of our experiences, such as the expansion of human knowledge and an increased regard for human rights, were constructive, others, resulting from war and the development of shockingly powerful weapons, were extremely destructive. Now we have entered a new millennium, we must learn from these experiences. We need an approach to human welfare that is more holistic, more open and farsighted.
By dealing with others with kindness, affection and honesty, cultivating a sense of truth and justice towards them, we ensure our own benefit. This is a matter of common sense. There is no denying that consideration of others is worthwhile. Our happiness is inextricably bound up with the happiness of others. It is clear that if society suffers, we ourselves suffer. What’s more, experience shows that the more our hearts and minds are afflicted with ill will, the more miserable we become. Therefore, we cannot escape the necessity of love and compassion, which are positive emotions that make our lives meaningful. These are, incidentally, qualities we can acquire through training our minds and ways of thinking, which is all the easier when we are young and our minds are still flexible and clear.
Despite a faltering start, I hope we can still take steps to ensure that this new century will be characterized by non-violence and dialogue, the preconditions of peaceful co-existence. It is natural that in any human society there will be differences and conflicts, but we have to develop confidence that dialogue and the support of friends are a valid alternative to violence in all our relations. In the context of our newly emerging global community, all forms of violence have become totally unacceptable as a means of settling disputes. I am convinced that if problems can be discussed according to non-violent principles with a calm mind, keeping in view the long-term safety of the world, solutions can always be found. However, such an approach requires a great deal of patience and determination.
As an expression of your positive attitude "Solidarity for the Future", I believe it is important that issues like working for peace in the world, preserving the natural environment and protecting human rights do not remain merely the business of middle-aged and elderly people, but that those of you who are still young should also be involved. The shape of the future is of even greater interest to you, who still have most of your lives before you. It is also important to remember that even if only a few individuals try to create mental peace and happiness within themselves and act responsibly and kind-heartedly towards others, they will have a positive influence in their community.
I send you my greetings and prayers that as a result of attending this International Congress all of you may be inspired to work enthusiastically for peace in whichever part of the world you may live."
