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Waiting on the world to change?

The world is waiting on you.

“We the people” make transformation happen.

The first step is to own the process. We have to be engaged in building our neighborhoods, our communities, our nations, our world. We have to participate. We have to lead. Long-lasting development is a result of grassroots engagement.

But where do we start?

We can start by serving.

Service taps into our innate creativity. It brings resources and people together in collaborative efforts that pursue shared aspirations. It makes us owners of solutions, not just participants of history. It uplifts our dignity, recognizing our potential and value. It acknowledges our desire to make the world better for each other, and gives us an opportunity to invest in that desire.

Service fuels locally owned social entrepreneurship and community driven development to effectively address the most challenging human problems.

Service is also a powerful instrument for peace, understanding, and personal transformation. It breaks down barriers between people in conflict by animating a vision of mutual prosperity and putting shared values into action.

You can start today, in any small or large way. Become an owner of a solution.

Roll up your sleeves and serve.

The world is waiting for you.

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Connecting Dreams

In Korean Dream: A Vision for a Unified Korea, Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon explores the dreams of Genghis Khan and America at the time of its founding. In these explorations of two very distinct cultures, Dr. Moon identifies key principles that could inform Korea in its own search for a way forward on the Korean peninsula.

Genghis Khan and the U.S. Founding Fathers

Depictions of Genghis Khan (left) and George Washington (right)

Most people don’t see a link between the infamous conqueror, Genghis Khan, and George Washington. But in fact, Khan influenced Washington in ways we are only now really beginning to appreciate.

Significantly for us today, Khan and Washington saw eye-to-eye on one particularly important issue on the relationship between religion and politics. I.e., they both understood the importance of religion and religious freedom to the health and well-being of a society.

In his farewell address in 1789, George Washington remarked, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.”

And while in the Western world, the name Genghis Khan has for centuries represented barbarity incarnate, many would be shocked to learn that Genghis Khan’s Mongolian Empire was studied by the American Founding Fathers. At the time, would-be presidents such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson debated, discussed and studied historical models as they worked to realize a nation governed by its people for the first time in world history. And as the emerging nation grappled with the ‘problem’ of religious diversity – they looked to the Mongolian Empire.

Scholar Jack Weatherford details these links in his book, Genghis Khan and the Quest for God. At its height, the Mongolian Empire stretched across Europe and Asia and conquered roughly 3 billion people, most of the known world. Amidst every imaginable kind of diversity, the Mongolian Empire oversaw one of the most peaceable periods known to mankind, dubbed Pax Mongolica.

Statue in front of Reagan Building in Washington D.C. reads “Our liberty of worship is not a concession nor a privilege, but an inherent right.”

Knowing this, the American Founding Fathers chose to learn from this period by instituting religious freedom as well as granting religious institutions tax exemptions, as Genghis Khan had done. In most of history, religion was instituted from above and the populace was expected to follow accordingly. Forced conversion and persecution for having a minority faith was a routine business at the time. The great gamble both the Great Khan and the U.S. Founding Fathers took was in allowing and facilitating grassroots, local populations to determine their own faith so long as they followed the laws of the land.

More remarkable still were the tax exemptions, which reinforced the government’s commitment to serve the people, rather than the other way around. These exemptions acknowledged and encourages religious institutions to flourish and as we saw in the American colonies, religious communities spread and blossomed across the nation well into the present day.

The American religious landscape has also worked to improve religious communities in general. By creating what essentially became a “marketplace” for religions, religious institutions needed to then serve the needs and interests of its congregants. Where they did not, the numbers dwindled as there were plenty of other options to take its place. These developments had since led to a flourishing that, interestingly enough, we see now taking place across the developing world as a globally more tolerant religious landscape has challenged religious orthodoxy in important ways.

In these unforeseeable ways, the lessons for one people, one nation, can become models for others to learn from. As nations today face the challenge of building a “unity in diversity” the lessons of one society can have a profound and powerful impact on other nations. Moving forward, the U.S. needs to look back on the aspirations it cast at its founding as a free, self-governing society. In this look back, we encourage a hard, long look at the role of religions, morality and their relationships with a free Republic.

As Benjamin Franklin once quipped, the U.S. is a “republic, if you can keep it.”

How will we keep it? What do we need and where do we go to engage in these critical conversations about the future of our nation?

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In the 1990’s, “reconciliation” was in the air.

Countries with different histories and cultures saw the process that South Africa went through in its post-apartheid period and saw their own need to do the same. Each nation took up interpretation of reconciliation in different ways and forms and with differing results.

South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist, Nelson Mandela served as South Africa’s first black President

Twenty some years out from that period, we can reflect on the reconciliation processes to then ask what lessons we can learn as a global community.

Following the 1994 abolition of apartheid in South Africa, many recognized that there was a need for justice regarding the many kinds of human rights abuses during apartheid. Yet in contrast to the Nuremberg Trial after WWII, South Africa’s leaders were determined to establish a “restorative justice,” rather than “retributive justice” through establishing a “Truth and Reconciliation Commission.”

While it was in the spirit of reconciliation, it was difficult to maintain balance between a commitment to face hard truths while simultaneously restoring critical, shared values such as justice, honor, dignity. Some recent explorations of South Africa’s own process and its “imperfect” aftermath notes:

[…] the initial euphoria after the end of apartheid has been tempered by time and experience, and some disappointment, as Mandela’s leadership and vision haven’t been matched by his successors.

Today, continued discrimination and economic and social disparities on the basis of skin color persist all across the country. In addition, there has been a string of recent allegations against the party of Mandela, the African National Congress (ANC), with claims that its leaders behave in ways contrary to the elder statesman’s legacy.

We might say that a closer look at justice might help shed light on why, despite every good intention and effort towards justice, the fruits of that period that we see today are bitter and hard to swallow. Perhaps the struggle to balance justice kept a sense of one side against the other firmly in place. One side seeks justice, the other seeks amnesty. Even while people from both sides of the dividing line were not exempt from being tried, we might observe that this didn’t do away with lines but further exacerbated them. In discussing justice and retribution, restorative or otherwise, there is an element of separation – you and them, us versus the other.

However well intentioned, in the effort to be truly fair and to bring about justice, many may have lost sight to a different need in the reconciliation process. Although the Commission was established in efforts to promote national unity and reconciliation, we have to question whether the execution of the Commission furthered or hindered reconciliation. I.e., in looking at the past, in placing blame, however just, did this have the unintended consequence in which every group forgot to look towards a shared future?

In this, we can learn many lessons from the South African experience. In looking to the future, we may need to prioritize the process of building social cohesion before discussing a process for justice. A shared vision and cohesion can then become the basis upon which to build towards true restorative justice; the kind of justice that brings each back into the fullness of his or her own humanity.

Again and again, we are reminded that our challenge is not for our heads but our hearts. And this is why we always come back to moral and spiritual leadership and look to leaders who can transcend lines of difference, inspire forgiveness and repentance in its truest forms.

With family, penitence and the heart to change is the kind of justice that we truly seek. It is in this spirit that we ask: if we’re all part of One Family Under God, how can we achieve true reconciliation?

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“When nations engage in issues of transforming a nation in poverty, they do everything in reverse. They start with the economic, then interfere with political, then catch up to the social side as an afterthought. The GPF model has done the exact opposite – it started with the social side. The importance of civic and NGO engagement to create national transformation is critical. It starts with social engagement that builds reformation and transformation, building the foundation for economic development.” —Dr. Hyun Jin Moon Global Peace Convention, Paraguay

Throughout the years, Dr. Moon has cast a vision wherein economics, as a key component of a comprehensive “national transformation” process, can be a “force for good” in a way that unequivocally respects the intrinsic rights, freedoms and responsibilities of all people.

To realize this vision, Dr. Moon has steadily worked towards building a foundation for a “national transformation” in societies across the globe by engaging in:

1. The first, critical step of building social cohesion around a common vision, universal principles and shared values of “One Family Under God.” Interfaith, intercultural and international platforms for dialogue around aspirational themes of “moral, innovative leadership” has been the first step to build trust, commitment and cooperation across lines of difference in diverse and divided societies.
2. With the ideal of One Family Under God, these efforts then create opportunities for peace and community building that challenges us to imagine more for our families, societies, nation and world. With trust, a common vision and shared values, emerges the opportunity to build multi-sectoral, synergistic partnerships and, ultimately, drive societal transformation.
3. These partnerships – from the local to the global – then creates new and exciting possibilities for collaboration and development in ways never before imagined.

Dr. Hyun Jin P. Moon speaks at the Global Peace Economic Forum in Manila, the Philippines

In Paraguay, Korea, the United States, Nigeria and beyond, Dr. Moon has guided these models of transformation, engaging people at the grassroots to work towards peaceful, prosperous and equitable development.

In 2017:

• Dr. Moon played a key role in organizing Economic Forums that engage private sector leaders in dialogue and collaboration for the sake of peace and development.
• In the arena of Korean unification, he has urged for substantive reforms of the South Korean economic model, calling for greater transparency and leveling of the marketplace to engage the younger workforce as well as prepare for Korean unification.
• In Asia, he has similarly promoted free-market models driven by the moral and innovative leaders who work for the cause of the common good.

During the Global Peace Convention held in Manila, Philippines in 2017, Dr. Moon explains the simple rationale behind all of the efforts to build such an economic model: “For there to be a sustainable, equitable and prosperous economic system, there must be people of conscience first, whose collective decisions advance the greater good as opposed to benefiting the few. Their choices need to be rooted in universal principles and values that uplift the intrinsic God-given human rights and freedoms of all because it is in their self-interest to do so. In other words, the markets, or their consumers, demand it.”

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“There are no shortcuts in life. There must be people of conscience first, whose collective decisions advance the greater good as opposed to benefiting the few.” –Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon

Young people crave purpose and outlets for their creativity. They dream of leaving their unique contribution to history, utilizing their strengths and interests. Their passion is a powerful force, like a fire; it can spread quickly, sometimes without purpose and in every direction, dying out after a spectacular show. However, a steady fire, nurtured consistently over time can provide light and heat, used as a guiding signal or to cook the food that nourishes our bodies. In the same way, the passion of youth can be utilized for great accomplishments when guided by an inspiring vision, universal principles, and shared values.

In his address to global leaders at the 2017 Global Peace Economic Forum in Manila, Philippines, Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon outlined the outstanding potential for global economic and social prosperity when founded on universally accepted principles and values.

“Systems are values-neutral; it is people that infuse those structures with their unique values perspective leading to varying outcomes, whether good or bad,” said Dr. Moon. He called for transformation starting with the citizens of nations rather than the system.

Economic and social systems obtain their value through the people who contribute to them. In order to raise citizens who contribute to the greater good of their nation and world, societies must raise youth with a purpose rooted in living for the greater good and values that help them navigate through the complex challenges in life.

Imparting moral leadership qualities in the youngest members of society assures that their future decisions will be based on principles and values that uplift God-given human rights and freedoms. This in turn promises stability not only on the social level, but also economically, as the global market begins to base its demand on a universally accepted ethic.

The road to a global ethic is not an easy or simple one. However, with the power of passionate youth, it is more than possible–it is inevitable. Getting there requires consistency and resolve in one’s purpose; it requires young people with grit.

The fire of passion in youth is bright, however, it must be nurtured consistently over time, maintaining an attitude of determination and strong sense of purpose or the flame will die out, jaded by the less than ideal world surrounding them. It can be difficult to achieve alone. A lone star in the dark sky may capture all the attention of those watching below, but its effect pales in comparison to the magnificent spectacle of a sky covered in a galaxy of brilliant stars all lighting up the night. When we find common ground under universal principles and shared values, we can light up the darkness together.

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“A clear national vision, rooted in fundamental spiritual principles and shared moral values, is the essential starting point for national transformation.” —GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon

With powerful case studies from Latin America and exploration in light of the mounting possibility of the unification of North and South Korea, the Economic and Business Forum will gather significant leaders in government, nonprofit, and business sectors to discuss the “Roadmap for Economic Dynamism and Prosperity” at the 2017 Global Peace Convention in the Philippines.

Economic transformation does not begin within organizations or financial institutions. Rather, the door to sustainable economic development is opened by a nation’s foundational principles and values that translate into initiatives that promote social transformation, leading to greater political and social stability. It is only by first becoming owners of a grand vision that a people with a shared identity can begin to significantly and permanently alleviate political and economic disparities within their nation.

A vision powerful enough to transcend the differences of a diverse people is needed as a unifying and guiding force. Dr. Moon has advanced the vision of One Family under God through the work of Global Peace Foundation and it has translated to practical application of principles and values in regions around the world. Individuals have become owners of this dream to uplift human dignity and fundamental freedoms, sparking social engagement as a catalyst for political change leading to stability. Political stability sets the foundation for economic development that is sustainable and benefits all people. Change begins in the hearts of people with common ideals and respect for our value as members of the same global family.

Political, business, and non-profit leaders gather at the Global Peace Economic Forum in Korea to discuss peaceful unification of the Korean peninsula.

Dr. Moon has been advancing an alternative model of development that begins with a vision and the principles and values that undergird it.

We have come to a time in history where economic reform is not only relevant, but also necessary. Extreme income disparity and shortage of a strong middle class have left societies unstable throughout the world. War and civil disorder sidetrack development resources for military and security use, depriving investment and long-term development. The human costs cannot be measured—disease, displacement, poverty and destruction of infrastructure.

Dr. Moon will be joining other experts in the Philippines, an appropriate host as the new 2017 chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the fourth largest exporting region in the world, for the Economic and Business Forum during the 2017 Global Peace Convention. The region is a complex place to do business but brings with it compelling opportunities for broad collaboration; opportunities that will be explored in the variety of roundtables conducted at the Convention.

Speakers include such distinguished representatives as Ambassador Youngmok Kim, the Former President of Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA); visionary media entrepreneur, Kartikeya Sharma; and Aileen Clemente, recipient of the first Global Peace Awards for Empowered Women in Tourism.

Peace is a precondition of prosperity and economic activity thrives in an environment of political and social stability. The business community has a vital role to play in promoting peaceful commerce for the welfare of all people.

Learn more about the 2017 Global Peace Convention and discover the possibilities for peace through Economy and Business.

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“A clear national vision, rooted in fundamental spiritual principles and shared moral values, is the essential starting point for national transformation.” —GPF Chairman Dr. Hyun Jin Moon

While delivering his speech at the Global Peace Convention in Paraguay, Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon emphasized the hope that can be found in young leaders who create change by uplifting human dignity. Young people in Cambodia are making a difference in their local towns, inspired by the vision of One Family under God. By owning this vision, youth are rising as leaders of social and economic transformation as they expand their sphere of influence.

Since its launch in 2013, the Basic English Language Instruction (BELI) organized by Global Peace Foundation-Cambodia has provided valuable English lessons to underserved schools around Phnom Penh and offered life-changing experiences to university student volunteers.

English is quickly rising as the primary language in many Southeast Asian nations. Providing quality education through English literacy programs like BELI gives Cambodian youth a significant advantage as the country enters a globalized economy and multicultural world.

Cambodian students attend volunteer orientation and induction.

Siverong, a student of the Royal University of Fine Arts, described how the project is empowering Cambodian youth with both academic and leadership skills, while affirming a shared human connection. “I really admire GPF for coming up with this kind of project,” Siverong said. “It gives opportunities to youth and students who cannot afford the costs of an extra English class. It also helps university students to get experience and work in real life. They can improve both hard and soft skills in their academic life.” Siverong continued to describe how the project empowered Cambodian youth with both academic and leadership skills while creating a culture of brotherhood; “I have made a lot of friends and met many good people. We learned and shared our experiences together as a family. One family under God – this vision can create an impact in order to serve lives for the greater good, regardless of race, religion, and culture.”

Another student, Sonita of the Institute of Foreign Languages, agreed, and added, “In each class with volunteer teaching, there are many students of different races, religions, and living conditions. We try our best to teach them as much as they can receive, without any discrimination. It is my great honor to be a part of GPF and gain experience and share my knowledge with the next generation.”

The BELI project includes training for students aspiring to become volunteer English teachers. An important aspect of the BELI training program is that it encourages the rising generation of professionals with a culture of leadership and service as they enter the workforce, thus supporting the ethical foundation for a vibrant civil society.

Fostering a culture of service through ongoing volunteer opportunities like BELI not only uplifts the community being served, but perhaps most importantly, uplifts qualities of leadership within the individuals providing service for others.

The original post appears on Global Peace Foundation. Global Peace Foundation is an international non-sectarian, non-partisan, nonprofit organization, which promotes an innovative, values-based approach to peacebuilding, guided by the vision of One Family under God.  GPF engages and organizes a global network of public and private-sector partners who develop community, national, and regional peace building models as the foundation for ethical and cohesive societies. Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon is founder and chairman of the Global Peace Foundation.

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