Recent history has seen examples of inspired leadership in the lives of people like Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King, Jr. who is remember on the third Monday every January in the United States. Each of these leaders had to face enormous challenges in a struggle against institutionalized injustice. In their own way, each of them used innovative expressions of the same vision: One Family under God. As expressed in America’s founding Declaration, that “All men are created equal, and endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights,” these dreamers overcame what was seen as the impossible in order to bring reconciliation and forgiveness to a society plagued with divisive doctrines.

Here are quotes from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that remain just as relevant today as they did half a century ago to inspire you in 2020.

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1.

“All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.”

2. 

“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.”

3.

“He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love.”

4.

“It is not enough to say we must not wage war. It is necessary to love peace and sacrifice for it.”

5.

“Everybody can be great … because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.”

6.

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

7.

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”

8.

“We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.”

9.

“Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”

10.

“Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles; Cowardice is submissive surrender to circumstances. Courage breeds creativity; Cowardice represses fear and is mastered by it. Cowardice asks the question, is it safe? Expediency asks the question, is it politic? Vanity asks the question, is it popular? But conscience ask the question, is it right? And there comes a time when we must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but one must take it because it is right.”

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“It should be the highest ambition of every American to extend his views beyond himself, and to bear in mind that his conduct will not only affect himself, his country, and his immediate posterity; but that its influence may be co-extensive with the world, and stamp political happiness or misery on ages yet unborn.”

The very first Commander in Chief of the United States of America set the standard for leadership in the new country not only for his tactical prowess but especially for his character and trustworthiness. George Washington’s administrative and organizational skills in conjunction with his merit, passion for country before himself, and the mutual trust he shared with those he led, makes him one of the greatest leaders in U.S. history.

Every third Monday in February America celebrates President’s Day, commemorating all presidents, but first established in 1885 in recognition of George Washington whose birthday is February 22.

To celebrate this President’s Day, here are 5 lessons on leadership we can take away from the exemplary standard of President George Washington:

1. Have a clear, encompassing vision.

George Washington was able to communicate a strong, clear vision to the people he led. He remained consistent regardless of the challenges, including a very inexperienced and ill-equipped militia, allowing him to organize people under a common culture and work together to uphold that vision.

2. Character Matters. Stay strong in your guiding principles.

It’s a lot easier to follow someone who not only talks the talk, but also walks the walk, both in action and moral character. Washington was well known for his upright moral character as a man of faith throughout the colonies. He proved many times as a Commander and later as President that he would stick to his principles and values no matter the harsh conditions he faced. He kept this standard whether he was on the field, in the halls of governance, or in the comfort of his own home.

3. Don’t ask others to do what you would not do yourself.

Washington’s men were quick to follow him on the battlefield. He was the first into the fray, even having his horse shot from under him and bullets grazing his coat. Soldiers and citizens alike trusted Washington and would end up giving up their money, livelihoods and even their very lives to join in his ambitious cause and make it their own. Washington held high standards for himself and showed respect for his men by holding them accountable to accomplish their own responsibilities.

4. Place the welfare of others before your own ambition.

Although a very confident person, Washington was also humble and showed respect to his men by listening to his advisory council and avoiding costly mistakes. When the time came for him to take the lead for a new nation, Washington refused to make his seat as President a lifetime term, setting the limited duration for Presidency that would prevent tyranny and inspire democracy. He understood that his actions would have lasting consequences that would set the precedent for the following generations.

5. Care for the people you lead.

Washington cared deeply for the men who followed him and their families. No matter their rank, he treated them with dignity and respect. Conditions in war were brutal and many died from their wounds, exposure and disease. Thousands of men would give their lives following their leader. During this time, Washington wrote, “To see the soldiers without clothes, without blankets, without shoes…without a hut to cover them…and submitting without a murmur… can scarcely be paralleled.”

Being a great leader takes hard work and consistency based on strong principles and values. What do you think it takes to be a great leader?

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It was a rare moment of bi-partisan unity in the U.S. House of Representatives when Speaker of the House Paul Ryan and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi called on their colleagues to remember that “we are one family”. The remarks honored the service of law enforcement in making the nation safe, and sent well-wishes to injured congress members, security forces and civilians after a morning shooting at a baseball practice.

“We are one family. These were our brothers and sisters in the line of fire. These were our brothers and sisters who ran into danger and saved countless lives,” Representative Ryan said. “I ask each of you to join me to resolve to come together, to lift each other up, and to show the country, to show the world, that we are one house, the people’s house, united in our humanity. It is that humanity which will win the day, and it always will. God Bless.”

Following Rep. Ryan’s remarks, Rep. Pelosi added her thoughts, opening with a joke, “My colleagues, you will hear me say something you have never heard me say before, I identify with the remarks of the speaker.”

She described how when she prays, she prays for all of her fellow representatives both Republican and Democrats: for their happiness, for working together for “God’s will” and to give confidence to the American people, and for their safety. She also prays for the success of the presidency and the safety of his family.

“Because it is about family,” she said. “We are called for a purpose to this family…My prayer is that we can resolve our differences and bring us closer to the preamble of the constitution.” She cited the motto of the U.S. “E pluribus unum,” meaning “out of many one.”

There are daily reminders of the fault lines that divide our human family, from terror attacks in the UK and Iran, to the ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Yet, Rep. Ryan and Pelosi’s sentiments also remind us that humanity shares an aspiration for peace, and this can overcome the lines that divide us.

Let us build on these moments that bridge our self-imposed lines of difference to then stay together, work together and build together communities and societies of moral integrity, ethical prosperity and, above all, lasting peace.

Watch the remarks:

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Photograph of Abraham Lincoln in 1862. This image is available from the United States Library of Congress’s Prints and Photographs division under the digital ID cph.3a17427

During the height of the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of national thanksgiving. This would become the first of what is commemorated each year in the United States as Thanksgiving.

The nation was divided. Families were literally torn down the middle, brother against brother, fathers against sons, neighbor against neighbor. Lincoln turned to gratitude to call the nation to unity and to project hope against the carnage of the war.

He called the nation to remember simple bounties of the rising sun and the fruits of the earth that “cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of the Almighty God.”

He asked his fellow citizens to pray for forgiveness for the nation’s vices, comfort for those suffering from the war, and healing for the wounds of the nation.

Today, the United States continues to observe Thanksgiving on the third Thursday of November. In a time of political divides, the nation can take the opportunity to remember with gratitude the legacy secured by those heroes who have worked hard to push forward the vision cast in the Declaration of Independence, and prayerfully ask for forgiveness for its limitations while seeking guidance from the same founding vision.

Below is President Lincoln’s Declaration issued on October 3, 1863:

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies.

To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God.

 In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union.

 Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle or the ship; the axe has enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore.

 Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to His tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the City of Washington, this Third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the Independence of the United States the Eighty-eighth.

By the President: Abraham Lincoln

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20-Sep-2014 |

“Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of people that these liberties are a gift of God?” –Thomas Jefferson

Dr. Trulear speaking at the Global Peace Leadership Conference USA.

The Global Peace Leadership Conference 2014 in the United States opened with notable faith leadership from different faith traditions gathering at the nation’s capital to dig into the roots of the nation’s founding principles.

Global Peace Foundation – USA President Alan Inman opened the conference urging leaders to focus on the spiritual heritage of America, rooted in a tradition that values human dignity, rights, freedoms, and responsibilities. “America is ripe for a spiritual great awakening,” he said, “that draws on that heritage to build a just, ethical, yet pluralistic society.”

At welcoming dinner, keynote speaker Dr. Harold Dean Trulear, Associate Professor, Applied Theologand Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at the Howard University School of Divinity, gave a rising call for national renewal. He drew on the biblical example of Ezekiel, a prophet called by God to prophesy to dry bones to restore them to life and vigor.

The Global Peace Foundation wrote, “Ezekiel was being held in captivity in Babylon with leading classes of Israelites, and the prophesy “related to restoration, of something lost, and the result of two things” Dr. Trulear said. “First they have forgotten where they came from, they forgotten their religious roots they forgot that they were a nation formed and chosen uniquely the bring morality to the rest of the world. The second reason is that they have become a nation of blood, who loved killing, who loved violence.”

Global Peace leadership Conference USA delegates go on a special tour of Capitol Hill highlighting the spiritual legacy of the United States of America.

Dr. Trulear suggested that the work of the Global Peace Foundation and of the conference was also the work of renewal and restoration of the faith and values that gave birth to the nation. The conference entitled, “America at a Crossroads: Leading Our Nation to Live Up to Its Founding Ideals,” seeks to address widening social divisions and weakening role of faith and religion in the public square. It will be held from September 19-21 in Arlington, Virginia.

Visit www.globalepeace.org for the original article.

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Dr. Hyun Jin Moon, Global Peace Foundation International Chairman and UCI Group President, was interviewed last month during his visit to Seoul. He did not hesitate to answer any question and spoke eloquently. In high school he was a top football player and was a member of the Korean national equestrian team during the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games and 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games.Photo Courtesy of DongA Daily: by Hyuk Joon Choi, sajinman@donga.com

In early June, DongA, a top Korean daily newspaper, published a feature story of Dr. Moon, chairman and founder of the Global Peace Foundation. The article focuses on Dr. Moon’s approach to North and South Korean relations. It also tries to explore the roots of his convictions: his thoughts on the Declaration of Independence and the ancient Korean philosophy of Hong Ik Ingan as a foundation for unity between the two Koreas, his approach to business and spirituality, and his relationship to his father.

Below is an excerpt from the article by Moon Myung Heo,  angelhuh@donga.com

Dr. Moon is a big and tall man. He said, “My Korean is not that good, and English is better for me,” so a GPF official translated for him.

He said, “I want to instill in Koreans an interest in reunification. The global circumstances regarding the Korean peninsula are changing.  Many Korea experts in the U.S. used to view North and South Korea as a two-state regime, but now they see that the reunification of North and South Korea is favorable for world peace.”

With ‘North Korea’s nuclear trouble’ neighboring countries are showing interest in the reunification of North and South Korea

 ―Do major powers like the U.S. and China genuinely want the reunification of the Korean peninsula?

“First of all, it is important to understand that the U.S. never imposed diplomatic policies on the Korean peninsula. The U.S. has always followed South Korea’s lead. The Chinese are reasonable people.  The Western World has a short history relative to China that boasts a 5,000 year history.. These are issues of trust with Japan. Thus, it seems China can have better relations with Korea than with Japan or the U.S.”

 ―What could possibly be the reason for the change in the global situation?

“It is because of the North Korean nuclear program. The global community has realized that the reunification of North and South Korea is the way to deal with the nuclear issue and bring stability to the Korean peninsula. You know that North Korea supports the nuclear program in Iran. North Korea’s nuclear program is closely related to western society’s war on terror. Northeast Asia is one of the most volatile regions in the world, and crucial for the security of the global economy. If a conflict breaks out in this region, it is highly likely that it will spread to the entire world. Global security in the 21st century begins with security in Northeast Asia. At this pivotal juncture, Koreans must seriously think about their own fate.”

 ― They are giving a serious thought to it.

“I do not think so. The conservatives and liberals within Korea warned me ‘Korean people are not interested in reunification,’ particularly youth.  Some suggested that I should instead deal with welfare issues since they are more interested in that topic than reunification.”

―At this point, he mentioned that ‘Mongolia’ is a key nation.

“The Six-Party Talks create a 3-on-3 situation, which always brings trouble. I suggest that Mongolia be included as the 7th member nation. Mongolia is on good terms with China and Russia. They used to belong to the Soviet bloc, but successfully transitioned from a communist to democratic nation without bloodshed. They have embassies in North and South Korea respectively. Historically one of Genghis Khan’s favorite wives who accompanied him during his conquests was the princess from Korea.”

Hongik-ingan and U.S. founding philosophy are interconnected

 ―To achieve reunification, North Korea has to change.

“You can think of North Korea’s situation as a cup half full or half empty. One of the problems of politics is that it pursues only short-term policies. Korea’s Sunshine Policy brought positive results but also created problems. It was unable to create a national vision that went beyond regimes. They had provide a vision that inspired the leader of North Korea. The biggest error in South Korea’s North Korea policy is that it has been Korea-centric.”

 ― At this point, I want to ask you a basic question. Why should Korea be reunified?

“Koreans have a destiny that begins at the founding of the nation. When I studied history in college, I was highly impressed by the 5,000-year history of Korea. The Korean founding mythology of Dangun and the philosophy of Hongik-ingan assert that Koreans are endowed by Heaven with responsibility to live for humanity. What is essential in leadership is moral authority. It is a great blessing that Koreans are given a national mission to live for humanity; and it is a position that holds incredible moral authority.”

I was very surprised that a Columbia graduate who spoke fluent English, dressed in a smart suit was talking to me about the ‘Dangun Mythology’ ‘Hongik-ingan.’ He continued.

“The U.S. rose to global power because the nation was founded upon fundamental principles of human rights and freedom described in the Declaration of Independence. But the Korean people were already advocating  principles and values that are essentially connected to the concepts of modern human rights and fundamental freedoms 5,000 years before. If we examine the spiritual heritage of the Hongik-ingan philosophy, we might discover a DNA that can resolve religious conflicts that have escalated into a global war on terror.”

When I asked again, “So are the benefits if Korea is reunified,” he  said what you might expect from a Harvard MBA graduate, words like ‘innovation’ and ‘creation’.

“In terms of investment and its consumer market, South Korea is already saturated. North and South Korea speak a same language, share the same culture, history and identity.  From a business perspective, it is a great asset that a developing country is located just to the north (post reunification). Korea can become a top 5 nation. Apple stocks are in decline in the U.S. The new Smart Phone is Samsung’s. Koreans strive for excellence and are very self-reliant. Japanese like to go in groups, but Koreans want to be the master, taking charge. Thus they are well suited for entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity. If a strong concept like national destiny can be infused into them, they will be able to seize the opportunities which are made possible through reunification and the position of leadership which Koreans can acquire.”

 ―  Are you a man of religion?

“If I talk about spiritual principles and values, people think I am evangelizing, but that is not it (Laughs). Most people think that a man of religion or a man of faith can only be active within the boundaries of faith, but that is not true.  Major reforms in every society throughout human history were sparked by a vision and principles that impressed people. These are spiritual values. North Korea’s Juche Idea is more like a religion than a philosophy. Religious leaders nowadays want to advocate their own faith and belief exclusively.”

 ― Are you saying you want to create a new religion?

“No. I have no such intention.”

 ― You are also a business man, but is it possible to make money based on spirituality?

“Business activities generate value through profits. Spiritual activities enrich our lives and add a meaning and purpose to our lives. Sometimes these two areas overlap each other, but based on my experience, it is more beneficial that they have their own purpose.”

 ― How can you maintain these separate purposes and be successful at the same time?

“I believe the biggest value can be created through moral and innovative leadership.”

 His answer was not concrete, but rather abstract and puzzling. I felt a sense of genuineness in his expression and his voice, yet he also seemed to impress upon me that he would only show me what he wanted to show…

“The Unification Church’s internal conflict stemmed from dissenting views regarding its future direction”

I tried to change the topic to Unification Church. I wanted to talk about succession controversy, but he firmly rejected the subject. I asked in writing ‘why do you refuse to talk about Unification Church’s internal strife including lawsuit among siblings.’ The following is his reply.

“The so-called conflict within the Unification Movement is rooted in contending views on the purpose and direction of the movement.  My siblings were unfortunate pawns set up to fulfill the nefarious purposes of some bad leaders. As a man of faith, I believe these conflicts will be resolved in due time.”

 ― What was your father like?

“Just like the title of his autobiography, he was a ‘Peace-loving global citizen.’ As a deeply patriotic Korean, he recognized that Korean people have a special role to play in God’s providence for the sake of all humanity. His work went beyond denominational and religious interests, spanning politics, business, NGOs, academia, culture, arts, sports and media. He always told me that he was willing to sacrifice the Unification Church for the sake of Korean Unification and world peace.  Now that my father has passed, I hope that he can be understood correctly without the biases and misunderstanding that surrounded his incredible and momentous life.”

For the full article in Korean visit: http://news.donga.com/3/all/20130610/55743310/1

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Dr. Hyun Jin Moon gave an exclusive interview to the Korean Media during the Global Peace Convention (GPC) 2012 in Atlanta, Georgia.

He encouraged the journalists to use the media to “educate well instead of coming up with conspiracy.” The Korean media, Dr. Moon said, has a critical responsibility to inform the public of  “real news that will affect the fate of the Korean people. ”

Shin Dong-A ran the interview in its January edition.

See the original article in Korean.

Interview with Global Peace Foundation Chairman, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon 

Below is the unofficial English translation.

“Trust must first be established on a grassroots level for the reunification of North and South Korea”

Global Peace Foundation Chair Hyun Jin Moon stressed in his opening speech at the Global Peace Convention, GPC Atlanta 2012, “We need a new framework rooted in our shared spiritual aspirations and principles that give rise to the values needed to build peace.”

During the interview, he gave an overview of GPC Atlanta 2012 and talked about GPF’s movement for Korean reunification.

Shin Dong-A: Why was Atlanta selected to host the GPC?

Dr. Moon: Atlanta is a place rich with history and faith. It was the center of the civil rights movement, led by Dr. Martin Luther King; it is also the home of former U.S. president Jimmy Carter, who has been deeply involved with the Habitat for Humanity movement.  The King Center and The Carter Center are located here. They both were a part of the conference. I have always seen the civil rights movement as not just the struggle for African American civil rights, but as a great spiritual movement to awaken all humanity. We can rekindle that spirit in Atlanta and make a global awakening that will offer a new perspective for peace.

Shin Dong-A: You mentioned that the co-prosperity of North and South America, the reunification of North and South Korea, and the Middle East are all connected to a single theme.

Dr. Moon: What is the relevance to Korea? This is an international gathering. I’m actually building awareness of how important the unification issue and the unification movement that we initiated is in terms of American foreign policy.

Before that unification process happens, America also needs to help Korea. Of course Korean people should actually initiate, but it actually needs the aid of many international parties to support the process, and this is an effort to build that support.

This whole process that is happening right now, I went from Mongolia to Korea, now to the United States, and I’m planning on doing a GPF in Japan, I’m basically bringing this entire region, not just the United States, North and South America. So it’s this entire Pan-pacific rim that is recognizing this as a major issue not only in terms of security but in terms of stability of the region.

Shin Dong-A: You underlined the importance of civil diplomacy. What do you think of the current government’s policy towards North Korea?

Dr. Moon: It needs to re-engage. No matter who wins [the Korean election], most likely there will be re-engagement.

Shin Dong-A: Dialogue between North and South Korea has stalled. How can this situation be resolved?

Especially if the Korean people take ownership, if this really becomes a national movement that really moves, “North and South Unity” will be just around the corner. Dr. Moon: In order for unification to happen in Korea, there has to be trust established. Trust is essential.

I believe in the Korea United initiative that I started. I think there is tremendous power there. Especially if the Korean people take ownership, if this really becomes a national movement that really moves, “North and South Unity” will be just around the corner.

Shin Dong-A: There is criticism that aid to North Korea will end up benefiting only the government of North Korea.

 Dr. Moon: It all depends on what kind of aid is provided. If we offer flour aid for example, it can be used for another purpose. But if we set up a bakery plant and have baked goods produced for consumption, we don’t have to worry about those kinds of problems.

That is one of the great things about how we framed the Korea United movement. We’re talking about outcomes, we’re not talking about, “We need to get rid of this regime”; we’re talking about outcomes for the entire Korean people. You give room so that it does not become a confrontational issue. And not only that, it’s non-threatening. That’s the power of the framework of establishing the outcome, and what are the principles and values that are going to lead you there.

Shin Dong-A: Have you been to North Korea?

Dr. Moon: I have been invited several times, but I haven’t been, yet. I would like to go when I have established a foundation upon which I can make a substantial contribution towards reunification. I do not want to go for political show, to just take pictures.

See also Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon’s speech at the Opening Plenary of the Global Peace Convention 2012 in Atlanta.

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Korea’s leading magazine Shin Dong-A, published a ten page feature of Global Peace Convention Atlanta 2012 in its New Years edition. The third segment of the article highlights The All Lights Village Movement. To date, the project has donated over 3,000 solar lamps to rural villages in developing nations. The project recently expanded its donor base to the United States and Japan.

See the original article in Korean.

Below is the unofficial English translation.

All Lights Village Movement Most Popular in GPC 2012

By Young Chul Choi ftdog@donga.com
Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Solar Lamps bring Peace and Love 

Mr. Kyoung Eui Yoo, president of GPFF Korea explains about solar lamps which were donated to the remote villages of the developing nations.

The Global Peace Foundation’s (GPF) Alllights Village was the most popular booth at GPC Atlanta 2012. Solar-powered lanterns afforded to remote villages in developing countries are saving lives that could be lost from smoke and soot inhalation, giving light for better education, and raising people out of poverty.

GPF Korea chairman, Mr. Kyung Eui Yoo, initiated the solar lantern project that has donated these environment-friendly lights to some of the 1.9 billion people who live without electricity.  The lamps have improved education, reduced illiteracy, reinforced sexual ethics, cut kerosene expenses, and increased household income. The campaign kicked off in March 2011, and by close of 2012, reports to have donated 3,000 solar powered lanterns and streetlights to 50 towns and villages in the Philippines, Malaysia, Mongolia, Kenya, and Indonesia.

The solar-powered lanterns need only a few hours to be fully charged for both indoor and outdoor use. GPF Korea has raised funds to procure the lanterns from the manufacturer who specially offers them at cost value.

Leaders from emerging countries who attended the GPC witnessed the power of these lanterns and invited GPF to bring the lights to their own countries. Leaders from developed countries expressed interest in joining the campaign.

GPF Korea President Kyung Eui Yoo said, “The Alllights Project is one of the substantive peace activities that GPF is carrying out in order to build model communities from these villages in developing countries.” He added, “During GPC 2012, leaders from several countries got together to discuss how to expand this campaign.”

President Yoo recently received an honorary doctorate degree from José Rizal University, Philippines, in recognition of his efforts with the Alllights Village Project.

Read the 1st segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/koreas-leading-magazine-shing-donga-covers-global-peace-convention-2012/

Read the 2nd segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/christianity-and-islam-join-hands-peace-koreas-leading-magazine-shing-donga-gpc-2012-feature-part-2-2/

Read the 4th segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/unification-north-south-korea-key-world-peace-koreas-leading-magazine-shing-dongas-gpc-2012-report-part-3-2/

See also Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon’s speech at the Opening Plenary of the Global Peace Convention 2012 in Atlanta.

Visit the Alllights Village site.

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Korea’s leading magazine Shin Dong-A, published a ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 in its New Year edition.The third section reported the historic launching of the Latin American Presidential Mission under the names of 19 former heads of state from Latin America. The January issue also ran the announcement of  Park Geun-hye’s presidential win, first woman president of the Republic of Korea.

See the original article in Korean.

Below is the unofficial English translation.

The Atlanta Declaration 2012 launched the Latin American Presidential Mission to promote hemispheric cooperation with North and South America under the names of 19 former heads of state.

GPC Atlanta 2012 Presents a New Paradigm for Global Peace

By Young Chul Choi ftdog@donga.com
Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Former Heads of State from North and South America Promote a Vision of Hemispheric Cooperation for Mutual Prosperity

During GPC Atlanta, 10 former Heads of State from 8 South American countries and delegations from 40-nations convened to launch a mission committed to a hemispheric Great Awakening in North and South America. An additional 8 former Heads of State from South America, who were not present, sent video messages of support. Together they launched a historic declaration, the Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation, resolving to use their past experience and leadership to work for the mutual prosperity of North and South America.

Based on its substantial Christian foundation, the American hemisphere has a common ethic.  However, North and South have walked disparate paths, harboring a protracted love-and-hate relationship. For example, the phrase ‘Down with American Imperialism’ became popular when anti-U.S. sentiments in South America peaked during the Falklands Wars, a territorial dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom (U.K.) when the U.S. sided with the U.K.

Over the past decade, vast numbers of Latin Americans have crossed the border into the United States to pursue the “American Dream”. Today, the Hispanic population in the U.S. has surpassed Blacks to become the largest minority. No longer can it be politically and economically disregarded. Resolving the discrimination and contempt towards the Hispanic population is critical to resolving the problem between North and South America.

The United States can no longer ignore the importance of Latin America. As the economic recession in the United States continues since the financial crisis in 2008, the fast-growing Latin American economic region could offer a way forward. Circumstances have prepared North and South America to redefine their relationship and secure peace and equality in the American hemisphere. In his keynote address at the GPC opening plenary, Dr. Moon called for a Hemispheric Great Awakening through North and South America based on a consensus of common spiritual values.   Dr. Moon noted, “North and South America have shared values that emerge from their common Christian heritage. Cooperation and unity should be based on these universal principles. This is how the western hemisphere can recover its moral authority and make positive impact around the world.”

Over the past two years, GPF in Latin America has promoted moral and innovative leadership and increased regional and hemispheric cooperation based on shared values. The results are reflected in two significant declarations, the Asuncion Declaration issued during the 2010 Global Peace Leadership Conference in Paraguay and the Brasilia Declaration pronounced in Brazil during the 2011 Global Peace Leadership Conference.  The Americas Summit commenced at The Carter Center and was integrated within GPC Atlanta. The summit sought to discover avenues for improved hemispheric relations based on shared values and common challenges for lasting peace and mutual prosperity for North and South America..

“the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.” ~Atlanta Declaration for Hemispheric Cooperation The summit concluded with the establishment of the Latin American Presidential Mission. The declaration was published in the name of 19 former presidents. Built upon the recognition of the vision of “One Family Under God”, it affirms, “that the unity and integration of the Americas must be based on the recognition and respect of unique national and cultural identities, and that efforts should be directed at obtaining not personal advantages but a common advantage.”

Former Guatemalan president Vinicio Cerezo said, ”A leader has to have a special character, with thought and skill, but also deep moral conviction to follow a path marked by his principles.” He added, “In international relations and politics, the leader of each nation should not abandon his ethical values under any circumstances.”

 “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” ~Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter

Dr. Jennifer McCoy, director of the Carter Center’s Americas Program, stressed ethics among nations quoting former President Jimmy Carter. “The commitment of the United States is to the belief that fairness, not force should lie at the heart of our dealings with the nations of the world. If any agreement is to last, it must serve the best interest of both nations.” Meanwhile, business leaders from around the world participated in the Global Peace Business Forum to discuss how trade and commerce can generate economic prosperity in North and South America, Africa, and the Iraq-Kurdish region. They agreed that the crisis of modern capitalism rooted in corruption and greed can be resolved through moral values and principles in business. Dr. Manu Chandaria, CEO of one of Africa’s largest businesses, Comcraft Group, received resounding applause when he said, “To offer economic opportunity to Africa is the realistic means to establishing world peace.”.

See all four sections of Shin Dong-A feature on GPC 2012.

The post "Hemispheric Cooperation for Mutual Prosperity" – Shin Dong-A feature report on the Americas Summit 2012 – part 3 appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.

Korea’s leading magazine Shin Dong-A, published a ten page feature of Global Peace Convention Atlanta 2012 in its New Years edition. The second segment of the article highlights the Muslim and Christian dialogue at GPC 2012 pushing for interfaith cooperation for regional peace.

Shin Dong-A, a leading monthly magazine in Korea’s feature on GPC Atlanta 2012 highlighted Muslim and Christian interfaith deliberations.

See the original article in Korean.

Below is the unofficial English translation:

GPC Atlanta 2012 Presents a New Paradigm for Global Peace

By Young Chul Choi ftdog@donga.com

Atlanta, Georgia, United States –

Christianity and Islam join hands.

Global Peace Foundation (GPF) chair, Dr. Hyun Jin Moon said in his keynote address, “America’s true strength lies in its moral authority as a nation rooted in spiritual principles and values which has championed human rights and freedoms at home and abroad.” These principles, he said, are enshrined in the American Declaration of Independence, making America “a nation with the aspiration to become ‘one nation under God.’” He recounted the United States’ contribution to the world over the past century, from “challenging European colonial imperialism,” to “creating international assemblies to foster peace through dialogue and reason,” resulting in The League of Nations after the First World War, and the United Nations after the Second World War. During the Cold War “American leadership, and faith in human rights and fundamental freedoms, paved the way for the eventual collapse of totalitarian, communist regimes around the world.”

“This moment may prove to be a historic crossroads, for the United States, and for the world,” Dr. Moon noted. “The time is ripe for a new spiritual awakening that galvanizes the community of righteous and faithful citizens around universal principles and shared values, not just in the U.S. but throughout the Western hemisphere and the world.”

Dr. Moon expounded on the significance of Atlanta, Georgia as the host city for GPC 2012, “a place rich with history, faith, and more importantly the center of the American Civil Rights Movement.” Atlanta is also where Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife have brought important focus to the work of  Habitat for Humanity.  Atlanta is also home to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Non-Violent Change (The King Center) and The Carter Presidential Center, both co-sponsors and participants of GPC Atlanta 2012.

Dr. Moon considers the civil rights movement to be “not just as a struggle for civil rights but as America’s ‘Great Awakening’ of the 20th century.”

The youngest daughter of Dr. King and King Center CEO, Bernice A. King, said, “I don’t characterize my father as a civil rights leader, I characterize him first and foremost as a spiritual leader, as a man of God, as a moral leader who just happened to impact civil and human rights.” Dr. King’s famous, “I have a dream” speech, alludes to the self-evident truths stipulated in the Declaration of Independence, that “all men were created equal.”

Ms. King opened her address saying, “I earnestly believe that if my father were living today, his heart would be warmed by the work of this great organization around the world. And in fact, I believe without a shadow of a doubt, he would be a part of your group.“ She also called for a New Great Awakening, a “radical revolution of values”, to secure peace.

The complex situation of the Middle East, including the recent military confrontation between Israel and Palestine, the prolonged civil war in Syria that began during the regional movement for democracy, show that military and diplomatic solutions to peace have reached their limit. America has poured billions into military resources for peace in the Middle East and is now facing an economic crisis.

Shin Dong-A acknowledged the contributions Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center, director of the Carter Center’s Americas Program, Jennifer McCoy, and Georgia State Senator, Jason Carter, grandson to former U.S. president Jimmy Carter.

Middle East experts and leaders agree, ”Decades of failures to resolve the problems of the Middle East show the limitation of Track-1 diplomacy.” Track-1 diplomacy is a government-centered approach that seeks to resolve disputes through political and economic negotiations and military force. The alternative, Track-2 diplomacy, seeks solutions through non-military means, such as through spiritual and religious approaches. Dr. Moon said, “For peace to be established there must be reconciliation. But reconciliation cannot be forced; it has to occur naturally from the heart. It is logical that alternative approaches to peace-building are becoming more appealing.”

Civil society, particularly religious leaders who are familiar with the spiritual dimension of humanity, are critical parts of effectively implementing this new approach, namely Track-2 diplomacy, for peace and reconciliation in heavily disputed areas. Influential Muslim leaders and Western Christian leaders who convened at GPC Atlanta, all emphasized the need for interfaith cooperation.

 Dr. Said of Nahdlatul Ulama, the largest Islamic group in Indonesia with 60 million members worldwide, said, “The possibility of reconciliation between the Islamic world and the Western world can be found in moderated Islamic forces that can bring change to extremist Islamic groups that are propagating terrorism.” Rev. Robert A. Schuller commented, “Western Christian leaders should move beyond the limitations of  their Christian world-view and accept their central responsibility – to practice universal values in the public square.” They both concluded that a fundamental spiritual paradigm shift is needed to prevent a clash of civilizations.

The Middle East is divided; tensions are escalating along religious, racial and cultural differences. GPC 2012 has been instrumental in developing solutions. If we can continue such endeavors, we can mitigate and ultimately end all conflicts. Minister of Education of the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq, Asmat Khalid For a number of years, GPF has worked together with influential Muslim leaders in Indonesia and Malaysia to build consensus around universally shared values. GPF was also a part of launching the Coalition for American Renewal, calling faiths to their common mission to awaken the American spirit and character, and work inter-religiously. Participating at GPC 2012 from Islam, were the prominent Muslim organization, Nahdlatul Ulama and the ministerial delegation from the Iraq Kurdistan Regional Government, and from Christianity, Rev. Robert A. Schuller from the United States, and Bishop Manoel Ferreira of the Assemblies of God, the largest Christian denomination in Brazil. All agreed that the profound and common mission of religions leaders is to secure peace through inter-religious cooperation.

Muslim and Christian leaders agreed that the vision captured in the phrase “One Family under God” and promoted through the interfaith work of GPF and Dr. Moon, is the vision needed resolve religious and regional conflicts. They committed to do their best to accomplish this vision, affirming that “One Family under God” is the common aspiration of all religions that expounds universal values and is the only means through which global peace can be attained.

Minister of Education of the Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq, Asmat Khalid said, “The Middle East is divided; tensions are escalating along religious, racial and cultural differences. GPC 2012 has been instrumental in developing solutions. If we can continue such endeavors, we can mitigate and ultimately end all conflicts. The experience of the Korean Zaitoon unit in Iraq will attest that we Kurds are fundamentally peace loving people.”

Read the 1st segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/koreas-leading-magazine-shing-donga-covers-global-peace-convention-2012/

Read the 3rd segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/all-lights-village-movement-most-popular-gpc-2012-shin-dong-a-special-report/

Read the 4th segment of Shin Dong-A‘s ten page feature of GPC Atlanta 2012 at: http://www.hyunjinmoon.com/unification-north-south-korea-key-world-peace-koreas-leading-magazine-shing-dongas-gpc-2012-report-part-3-2/

See also Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon’s speech at the Opening Plenary of the Global Peace Convention 2012 in Atlanta.

The post “Christianity and Islam join hands.” Korea’s leading magazine, Shin Dong-A, GPC 2012 feature – part 2 appeared first on Hyun Jin Preston Moon.