The past two days have been both physically and mentally challenging. Our days begin at 8am and end at 10pm. We are bussed across Peru for everything from meetings with government officials to trips to ancient ruins to almost impossible to attain tours of Peruvian government buildings.
I find myself complaining at times, and must remind myself that to whom much is given, much is required.
I sat with Antonio Villegas Villalobos, the Mexican Embajador (Ambassador) of Peru today in a small group interview. I asked him the following question:
"How do you think students who have the opportunity to attend APEC and ABAC can contribute to the goals of your country?"
His response was perfection.
In so many words he explained that youth too often regard the many meetings and international gatherings of leaders as unnecessary, a vacation of sorts. However, these meetings are essential to uniting the efforts of the APEC member economies and to carry out the ideals of peace and economic prosperity. It is imperative for students to seek knowledge regarding such areas and to be informed of the goings on in the global community. It is these students who can offer suggestions and ideas, and who can criticize intellectually as we try to attain our goals.
His response was perfection.
In so many words he explained that youth too often regard the many meetings and international gatherings of leaders as unnecessary, a vacation of sorts. However, these meetings are essential to uniting the efforts of the APEC member economies and to carry out the ideals of peace and economic prosperity. It is imperative for students to seek knowledge regarding such areas and to be informed of the goings on in the global community. It is these students who can offer suggestions and ideas, and who can criticize intellectually as we try to attain our goals.
Directly related to this is a statement made by Tony Nowell, New Zealand ABAC Member:
"A strong and viable economy is not built by governments alone."
If there is one thing that I will take with me back to America from the past few days, possibly fro
m the entire trip, it has got to be this. We must learn, brainstorm, participate, and execute to achieve the goals of propesperity for ALL.To whom much is given, much is required; yet even more must be reciprocated.
You just heard my Voice (bet ya didn't even know).
It's nine in the afternoon,
Kandace aka Quotist
1 comment:
Hey K and friends This is from your aunt Tanya in Florida. You go girls, my husband and I will give gift this christmas to everyone a donation to their favor charity. we will give to 10 family in the farm area food plants and chic to raise for food. We want all to pay it forward and world will be a better place.
Love Aunt Tanya
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