Each new year is a gift of learning , growth, and hope . May your mind and soul be enriched with these things and more, in the days to come.
I wish only one thing – “unity in India , real unity,” . I am in Manipur in connection with a childhood vision project of Eye Foundation of America ( world without childhood blindness ) . Today is the last day and I was watching CNN before I leave to the airport and listened to talking heads discussing how China is trying to influence Africa ( Xi jinping announced that China would implement TV satellite programs for 10,000 African villages. ) and about how US is struggling to compete with China in influencing Africa. (You may remember the PEPFAR ( President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief program by US 20 years go and Power Africa ten years ago).
I did not want to watch further . I switched off the TV and turned to my notes. While world powers are struggling for supremacy, all of us are aspiring for world peace. India, the largest democracy with its incredible accomplishments since 1991, is in a unique position to bring world peace. Look at what Arnold Toynbee said , decades ago-
“It is already becoming clear that a chapter which had a western beginning will have to have an Indian ending if it is not to end in the self destruction of the human race ….At this supremely dangerous movement in human history, the only way of salvation for mankind is the Indian way —Emperor Ashoka‘s and Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of nonviolence and Shri Ramakrishna’s testimony to the harmony of religions . Here we have an attitude and spirit that can make it possible for the human race to grow together into a single Family — and in the Atomic age, this is the only alternative to destroying ourselves.”
Finally let me say this —In spite of the great accomplishments of India, there may be new tremors, working their way through the subsoil of our national life. It is only the character and dedication of the young generation that can ensure the survival of freedom. We can never forget the last words of Buddha to his disciples. “Look not for refuge to anyone besides yourselves“ these words contain timeless wisdom .
Be wise, Don’t be otherwise. Happy New Year 2923!
– From Dr, VK Raju
