... I find the American nation so capable of
achievement and this government the fairest of western governments, its
institutions superior to others, my wish and hope is that the banner of
international reconciliation may first be raised on this continent and the
standard of the Most Great Peace be unfurled here. May the American people and
their government unite in their efforts in order that this light may dawn from
this point and spread to all regions, for this is one of the greatest bestowals
of God. In order that America may avail herself of this opportunity, I beg that
you strive and pray with heart and soul, devoting all your energies to this
end: that the banner of international peace may be upraised here and that this
democracy may be the cause of the cessation of warfare in all other countries.
- ‘Abdu’l-Baha (‘The Promulgation of Universal Peace: Talks Delivered by
'Abdu'l-Bahá during His Visit to the United States and Canada in 1912’; The
Compilation of Compilations, Vol. II, Peace)
