Editorial

Spring is a time when flowers bloom and trees begin to grow and reproduce. The days grow longer and the temperature warms. This year the joy of spring has been clouded by Russia’s senseless invasion of Ukraine. Almost 35 years ago standing on the West German side of the Berlin Wall, with the iconic Brandenburg Gate at his back, President Ronald Reagan declared: “General Secretary Gorbachev, if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity for the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe, if you seek liberalization, come here to this gate. Mr. Gorbachev, open this gate.” Reagan then waited for the applause to die down before continuing. “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!”. In the 35 years since and until recently we have seen Eastern European nations embrace their newfound freedoms and enjoy peace and prosperity. For these nations, there is no going back. Today’s world leaders must challenge President Vladimir Putin to stop his war on Ukraine and seek peace.

Julian Lennon recently performed for the first time his father’s song Imagine as part of Global Citizen's Stand Up For Ukraine. There are a few poignant words in Lennon’s lyrics “Imagine all the people, Livin' life in peace …… you may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us and the world will live as one.”

Coincidentally, as part of Easter Week, I discovered the meaning of the word Maundy. The word 'Maundy' comes from the Latin word mandatum. During his last supper Jesus told his disciples, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."(John 13:34-35) In the Latin Vulgate version of this passage the words "new commandment" are 'mandatum novum.' So, Christians recognize 'Maundy Thursday" as the anniversary of the night on which Jesus gave his disciples this new commandment to love one another.

If we only were to love one another, peace would not be just a dream.

Lastly, we need your help to further strengthen and maintain our Andersen Alumni network. Please leverage our Social Media Presence and LIKE , JOIN, and FOLLOW us.

As Always Think Straight Talk Straight
Warren Turner

Founder and Editor