February 12, 1913
Paris Esperanto group
Paris, France
In the material world of existence, human undertakings are
divided into two kinds universal and specific. The result of every universal
effort is infinite and the outcome of every specific effort is finite.
In this age, those human problems which create a general
interest are universal; their results are likewise universal, for humanity has
become interdependent. The international laws of today are of vast importance
since international politics are bringing nations nearer to one another. It is
a general axiom that in the world of human endeavor, every universal affair
commands attention and its results and benefits are limitless. Therefore, let
us say that every universal cause is divine and every specific matter is human.
The universal light for this planet is from the sun and the special light here
tonight, which is electric, illumines this banquet hall through the invention
of man. In like manner the activities which are trying to establish solidarity
between the nations and infuse the spirit of universalism in the hearts of the
children of men are like unto divine rays from the Sun of Reality, and the
brightest ray is the coming of the universal language. Its achievement is the greatest
virtue of the age, for such an instrument will remove misunderstandings from
among the peoples of the earth and will cement their hearts together. This
medium will enable each individual member of the human family to be informed of
the scientific accomplishments of all his fellowmen.