We have a unique relationship with time. The time we live in seems
so ordinary and yet is so special. We can only fully realise its
present significance from a distance. We can learn all about the past
but cannot change it. Little do we know what the future holds, but we
have a chance to do something for the future right now.
Time and people are alike – they are transient. When answering the
question about the true meaning and purpose of life most of us would
say that it is about having children, doing good work or in general
leaving a mark. Mozart, Einstein and Tutankhamen have left indisputable
marks known to almost everyone. In keeping with the values and virtues
of their time, the mighty of the ancient world created the seven
wonders of the world at the cost of people’s lives and toilsome labour.
We too must create our own wonder – a sign of our time - for the
generations to come.
Today’s grand projects like the Palm Island in Dubai, the Arab
Emirates, have set out to surprise the world as the eighth wonder.
These man made islands planted in water are worth billions and
accessible only to the rich. Paradoxically, yet again the rich and the
mighty have taken upon themselves to declare what is to be the eighth
wonder of the world. These constructions are certainly admirable as a
feat of civil engineering but not as a symbol of contemporary values.
Today differs from the old days. When people speak they can change
public opinion and convention. By placing your name and information on
the Wall of the World you cast your vote for the Wall of the World to
be recognized as the eighth wonder of the world. 65 million people will
vote that the Wall of the World is the eighth wonder of the world. Who
will call into question the opinion of the world’s people? Who will set
the toys of millionaires against the dream of the world’s people?
We will build the eighth wonder of the world together. And your name will be written on it.
Every letter left by us on the Wall of the World will be part of our
voting. It will be a vote saying that we are worthy of admiration - for
forming evidence of unity, a new symbol of love, tolerance, respect,
peace and friendship.
The privileges of the 21st century such as the Internet,
communications, cross-border friendship, free movement of people, money
and resources allow us to show that true values do not reside in
material wealth – they reside in us and in the hallmarks of this era.
Today no barriers to the unity of people exist. We can accomplish
whatever we wish by the means available to us.
At this stage of civilisation we can make our voice heard from
wherever we are. The Wall of the World will be our voice for delivering
a distinct message long after we cease to exist.
Today’s values and power resides in us and in our time here, its
unprecedented possibilities and its freedoms, and its opportunity for
unity.
This message will make itself heard, it will not go unnoticed today and will reverberate throughout generations to come.
Our names on the eighth wonder of the world will be the evidence.
The evidence of unity.
