Since our world is becoming smaller with ever more increasing contact between peoples of the world, it is important to remember that we are all human, we all breathe the same air, we all love our children, and we all are mortal.  As Jimmy Carter said in his recent acceptance speech for his Nobel Peace Prize “We will not learn to live together in peace by killing each other’s children.”  The Dalai Lama pointed out in his acceptance speech for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, that “the only sensible and intelligent way of resolving differences, whether between individuals or nations, is through dialogue.”  And 25 years before that, Martin Luther King accepted his Nobel Peace Prize based upon his profound recognition that nonviolence is the answer to the crucial political and moral questions of his time—the need for man to overcome oppression and violence without resorting to violence and oppression.  Farm activist Cesar Chavez told us “Nonviolence is not non-action.  It is hard work.  It takes patience to win.”   

We believe that all humans yearn for freedom, equality and dignity with respect for human rights.  Whatever our differences we must always remember that we are bound together as members of the human family. 

To find resolution to conflict the advice is clear from John Kennedy’s inaugural address:  We must first explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.  Never fear to negotiate.  Let all peoples share in the wonders of science instead of being affected by its terrors.  And as to governments remember that the strong must be just and the weak secure.   

The key to creating a better and more peaceful world is the development of love and compassion for others.  This naturally means we must develop concern for our brothers and sisters who are less fortunate than we are.  It is a tragedy that in so many parts of the world there is no shortage of guns and bullets, but a severe lack of food.  In order to co-exist, we must begin to resolve clashes of interests using new techniques.  It can no longer be thought that war will win the debate.  It is not weakness that drives continued discussion.  It is willingness to evolve toward a higher humanity that will allow patience in discussions to eventually become solutions. 

Let us, as humankind, work as one community to solve the grave problems of our time.  Terrorism, overpopulation, dwindling natural resources, environmental issues all threaten our very existence on this planet.  Human rights, environmental protection and great social and economic equality are all interrelated.  Peace will prevail on earth as soon as we understand old lessons, and start sharing this planet as a human family.   

In this age where security is not assured the only way to find peace daily is to work with all peoples toward disarmament, and embark on a path toward love and compassion for ourselves and our brothers and sisters.  Compassion is, by nature, peaceful and gentle, but it is also very powerful.   

Ultimately, humanity is one and this small planet is our only home.