We have the power to make the world we seek

"We have the power to make the world we seek,
but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning.

All people yearn for certain things: the ability to speak your mind and have a say in how you are governed;
confidence in the rule of law and the equal administration of justice;

government that is transparent and doesn't steal from the people;

the freedom to live as you choose.

Those are not just American ideas, they are human rights.

There are some who advocate for democracy only when they are out of power;

once in power, they are ruthless in suppressing the rights of others.

No matter where it takes hold, government of the people and by the people sets a single standard for all who hold power:

you must maintain your power through consent, not coercion;

you must respect the rights of minorities, and participate with a spirit of tolerance and compromise;

you must place the interests of your people and the legitimate workings of the political process above your party.

Without these ingredients, elections alone do not make true democracy.

All of us share this world for but a brief moment in time.

The question is whether we spend that time focused on what pushes us apart, or whether we commit ourselves to an effort - a sustained effort - to find common ground, to focus on the future we seek for our children, and to respect the dignity of all human beings.

It is easier to start wars than to end them.

It is easier to blame others than to look inward;

to see what is different about someone than to find the things we share.

But we should choose the right path, not just the easy path.

There is also one rule that lies at the heart of every religion - that we do unto others as we would have them do unto us.

This truth transcends nations and peoples - a belief that isn't new; that isn't black or white or brown; that isn't Christian, or Muslim or Jew.

It's a belief that pulsed in the cradle of civilization, and that still beats in the heart of billions.

It's a faith in other people, and it's what brought me here today.

We have the power to make the world we seek, but only if we have the courage to make a new beginning"

Alcuni passi significativi del discorso del presidente Barack Obama all'Università di El Cairo