<![CDATA[Forward, Upward, Onward Together]]>This weekend, The Bahamas kicks off its celebration of 40 years as a sovereign, independent democratic nation—a stable country with a long history of 325 years of peaceful governance as a British colony prior to independence—and a country of 700 islands set in crystal clear waters that have carried peoples from many lands to its shores over the centuries. The Bahamas crest embraces the motto: Forward, Upward, Onward Together.

Bahamas.Crest

On July 10, 2013, The Bahamas will celebrate their 40th Anniversary as an independent nation

I love this animated video that celebrates “The Power of Outrospection” — an age of empathy and imagination: the twin pillars of lifting all of humanity forward, upward, onward together. It is produced by the RSA (a UK-based group that celebrates practical innovation and thought leadership in much the same way as TED—an organization of  “…fascinating thinkers and doers …” that I have followed and long admired for their conferences championing the human imagination). RSA stands for The Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce—and although it was founded in 1754 in a coffee shop in Covent Garden it has remained relevant through an ongoing focus on pioneering spirits and forward-thinking ideas that empower everyone. The RSA tag line … 21st century enlightenment … is beautifully illustrated in this short video that supports both that lofty goal while also raising awareness about the everyday moments of great empathy that have come together historically to uplift us all.

The modern day Bahamas was founded in just such moments of great empathy, and I hereby salute all the thought leaders and peaceful movements forward that are part of our world and part of  The Bahamas today—as well as the keys to the country’s ongoing success and sustainability as part of a true paradise on earth. Happy Birthday, Bahamas!

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