Celebrating the Unquenchable Spirit of Youth
On February 18, 2016, NSHSS Chairman Claes Nobel was invited to speak at the 2016 Winter Youth Assembly at the United Nations in the General Assembly Hall. The Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations is a unique platform created by NSHSS Partner Friendship Ambassadors Foundation to foster dialogue and generate partnerships between exceptional youth, UN high officials and staff, the private sector and civil society, and academic institutions. The following is an excerpt from Mr. Nobel's speech.
Celebrating the Unquenchable Spirit of Youth
By Claes Nobel
Chairman, NSHSS
World betterment and the Swedish Nobel family have been synonymous for 115 years. My great-grand uncle, Dr. Alfred Nobel, started this mission by establishing The Nobel Peace Prize. While it is an honor and a privilege to recognize the greatest scientists, poets, statesmen and philosophers among us, there is a special place in my heart for encouraging and recognizing the youth of the world.
Serving as Chairman of The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), an organization dedicated to honoring youth worldwide, I am continuously inspired by their unquenchable spirit.
The power that young people possess to Saving Earth and Humanity is clearly evident from my participation at the 2016 Winter Youth Assembly at the United Nations, marking an exceptional occasion for diverse young people to discuss the implementation of The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development for world betterment. This impactful event was held in the General Assembly Hall at the United Nations in New York City on February 18, 2016.
World Transformation is on the horizon! At the head of this metamorphosis is the power of youth. Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel Peace Prize recipient, is the embodiment of that power. Following Malala’s example, we must encourage our young people to take a stand for global unity in achieving worldwide goals for sustainable development. At a time when differences are tearing countries apart, young leaders, when given respect and support, have the power to advocate for equality and initiate profound and lasting change to end global poverty and hunger and foster innovative solutions to water, energy and saving the Earth. Yes, youth are turning ideas into action!
My own prescription for World Betterment, if applied diligently and constantly, is a powerful, fail-proof prescription for Universal Peace, Environmental Sustainability and Great Personal Happiness. I call this “dynamite medicine,” in honor of my relative, Dr. Alfred Nobel. It constitutes the bricks-and-mortar of Earth Ethics and Universal Peace. This chicken soup for a sick world, is based on The Seven Rights. They are:
1. Right Thought. Your mind is a dynamic “Master Builder.” It creates reality! Dream lofty dreams! Thoughts materialize!
2. Right Word. Words are most powerful. Once a word leaves your mouth, not even the strength of 10,000 elephants can pull it back again.
3. Right Deed. Stop talking, start walking! Let love, dignity, honor and truth be the noble hallmarks of your character.
4. Right Attitude. Smile, laugh and be kind, positive & helpful to all. Be a good listener! Listen with your heart!
5. Right Livelihood. Step lightly on the Earth! Leave no footprints!
6. Right Here. You do not have to go to the faraway corners of the world. Start world transformation and world betterment in your own community. Start digging right in your own backyard. You might find diamonds!
7. Right Now. Do not procrastinate. No more excuses like you have no time, like you do not care. Become an active and very busy person for world betterment and world change.
When I meet youth around the world, I greet them with this simple phrase: “LOVE & GOOD EARTH.” The God-given birthright of every human is to have a Good Earth for now and for generations to come.