|
 New
York -- On Sunday Buddhists all over the world celebrate joyously
the message of compassion, understanding and mutual respect that the
Buddha brought to mankind. In this time of global uncertainty, the
Buddha's vision of peace and humanity's highest potentials may be more
relevant than ever before", says Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the
United Nations in his message to mark Vesak.
The full text of the
message:-
"The Buddha's lofty
ethical and humanitarian ideals have given birth to a vibrant
spiritual tradition that continues, more than 2500 years later, to
ennoble the lives of millions of people. Today, all over the world,
Buddhists celebrate joyously the message of compassion, understanding
and mutual respect that the Buddha brought to mankind. "In this time
of global uncertainty, the Buddha's vision of peace and of humanity's
highest potentials may be more relevant than ever before.
Indeed, if we want to
have a chance of overcoming the many challenges that face us today -
in the fields of peace and security, development, and the protection
of our global environment - we must think beyond our narrow,
short-term self interests, and raise ourselves to a universal
perspective from which the well-being of the broader human community
appears as important as our own well-being. Each of us shares the hope
of a more peaceful, equitable and sustainable future. Our actions - as
individuals and as members of our communities - must be guided by that
common dream.
"On this day of Vesak,
let us remember that whatever our origin, our race, our culture or our
belief, we are not essentially different. Above all, we share the same
home, a shrinking planet on which we are bound to live together. So,
let us work together towards the common good and the harmonious and
peaceful coexistence of all the world's people.
"I wish you all a
happy Vesak". |
