President Bush Inspires Compassion by Example

On January 11, Golden Year 5 (2008), Supreme Master Ching Hai conferred the Shining World Leadership Award on President George Bush for his approval of a significant reduction in the US nuclear weapons stockpile. In Her Award letter, Master praised the President for his outstanding actions:

“…This unilateral move to accelerate the dismantling of nuclear warheads sends a loving message of peace throughout the global community, engendering greater trust amongst nations and heralding the start of a brighter, more harmonious future for humankind.”

In the early part of 2008, Sir Bob Geldof, humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize nominee, praised President Bush for his work in delivering billions of dollars toward the noble goal of eliminating disease and poverty in Africa.

More good news was reported in May of this year as the US military decided to withdraw American troops in Iraq. This decision garnered another thank-you letter from Supreme Master Ching Hai on June 17 as She wrote:

“This peaceful move clearly demonstrates that conditions are improving for our Middle Eastern neighbors, hence the troop presence can be reduced, empowering them with independence on their road to democracy. God Bless America!”

On September 9, 2008, the President issued yet another statement of troop withdrawal by February 2009 and potentially more after that, saying, “If the progress in Iraq continues to hold … additional reductions will be possible in the first half of 2009.”

And most recently, President Bush donated US$8.3 million in emergency aid to assist displaced persons due to unrest or flooding in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Georgia. The funds will be distributed through a variety of international, governmental and non-governmental organizations.

We thank you, President Bush, for your willingness to protect the citizens of your country and provide aid to less fortunate countries, as well as your ideal of free and democratic societies around the world. Through exemplary efforts such as yours, our world is quickly approaching the day when we can all live in harmony and brotherly love. 

The President sent a gracious reply of appreciation and best wishes
from himself and the First Lady.

THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON July 31, 2008 Dear Ms. Ching Hai: Thank you for the thoughtful gifts. I appreciate your thoughtful gesture and kind words. Laura and I send our best wishes. May God bless you, and may God bless America. Sincerely, George Bush