1) While the cost of action will be great, the cost of inaction will be even greater.
Yes -- action will cost something -- we've got to invest our time and money for the people around the world. If we don't do this -- people will continue to suffer from severe hunger, disease, and fear.
2) We cannot afford to govern out of anger or yield to the politics of the moment.
Nor should we work for the poor motivated by anger or paralyzing guilt -- but for a love and joy for the world.
3) This nation has responded with bold action and big ideas
Think about how the United States can work together to bring bold action and big ideas that reach beyond our borders!
4) The cost of our health care has weighed down our economy and our conscience.
After seeing dying children in the Lilongwe, Malawi hospital -- I've realized the costs are way too high and the weight -- way too heavy.
5) Every child has a chance for education from the day they're born to the day they begin their career.
Education is crucial to getting out of poverty. Outreach International has built several schools in places like India and Haiti and has seen the powerful effects.
6) I speak to you not only as a president, but as a father. In the end there is no program or policy that can substitute for a parent ..
What if we looked at the world as parents more often?
7) I am committed to restoring a sense of honesty and accountability to our budget.
Corruption is embedded in poverty stricken countries -- honesty and accountability is the first step toward equity.
8) Living our values makes us safer, makes us stronger.
Values = hope, relationships, confidence.
9) Tremendous burden but also a great privilege -- for in our hands lies our ability to shape this world for good or ill.
This means you.
10) Hope is found in unlikely places. Inspiration comes from dreams and aspirations from ordinary people who are far from ordinary.
www.outreach-international.org for stories that talk about exactly this!
-Karyn Wingard-Manuel
Amazing! I am so glad that Obama agrees with Outreach International in so many ways. :) No seriously though it was a great speech and I am glad for your top ten Karyn!
Posted by: Stephen Donahoe | February 24, 2009 at 09:58 PM
It just proves that logical, visionary, compassionate thought can lead to responsive action. I think we'll see a lot of compassionate, wise action in this administration. And hopefully Obama will be the model and encouragement that people need to continue doing good, trusting that a country of moral strength stands behind them.
Thanks for highlighting this for us, Karyn!
Posted by: Diane Sadler | February 25, 2009 at 09:23 PM
I'm reminded of Bob Mesle teaching at Graceland that we need to think and act based on what is best for our (global) children. He taught a philosophy (and theology) of compassion which I see mirrored in Obama's words and actions. Finally!
Posted by: Shandra Newcom | February 26, 2009 at 10:15 AM