October 23, 2008 at 2:40 pm

I was at the convention yesterday, and one of the 14,000 strong who heard Bono’s inspirational message first hand. His voice and his message came through loud and clear. Even though I have been a member of ONE for a couple of years now, I came away with a renewed sense of passion and purpose. I took his words about America as a nation, and her global mission, personally. Rather than looking for more ways to cut back in these economic times, I am dedicated to finding more ways to give back. THANK YOU to Bono and the entire ONE.org staff that was there at booth in The Village. I purchased one of the special black T-Shirts and will wear it proudly in a show of solidarity to make POVERTY HISTORY!

Sincerely,
Janece Herrington
Yorba Linda, CA

October 23, 2008 at 4:00 pm

I was not in attendance at the event but thanks to the incredible capacity of our modern media, I got to watch from home.

In my humble opinion, this was by far one of Bono’s most amazing speeches. He was funny and articulate, showing his humility, his strength and his passion. I got goose bumps a couple of times, cried at others. This was truly aniIncredible effort. It is so awesome to know that we are working for the same things, social justice and equality. Makes me proud to be part of this incredible man’s efforts.

Cheers to you Bono for reminding us of why we do what we do.

Nancy Bauer

October 23, 2008 at 4:14 pm

Bono is not simply one of the world’s greatest orators, but he is one of humanity’s greatest advocates. Pretty cool what a “rock star” has accomplished. I hope he continues his great work.

October 23, 2008 at 4:55 pm

Bono is a prophet to this generation and he gave a word to America, not just to the women in California. In spite of the crisis that has hit and is affecting the USA, THIS is NOT the time to look inward, this is the time for America to remember the poor and forgotten of the world. It is in times of crisis and chaos and questions that America has been its greatest. America is an idea, not just a country.

But it was a word to women. Stand up. Take your leadership. Show your love and compassion and mobilize an army of compassionate men and women to respond to those living in the majority world in poverty, with health issues and without hope. Now is the time. Make a difference one at a time. Thanks Bono, your words have come through again loud and clear.

October 23, 2008 at 5:54 pm

Once again, Bono reminds us all that we are not individuals, states, or countries, but a planet, one world community. His inspiring speech has humbled me yet again, & reminded me that every small action can make a big difference. The simple fact that he uses his fame to promote causes such as One, & Red proves the kind of man he is, & reminds us of the men & women we should all be. We don’t need to be famous or wealthy to help save others - all we have to do is care, & take action, & because of his words, he inspires me to be better than I am, to do more than I think I can. Thank you Bono, for doing what you do, & reminding us that we all can do the same. Cheers!

October 23, 2008 at 6:25 pm

Truly the world’s best traveling salesman! Bono continues to inspire me. Even in these hard times we must remember how truly fortunate we are and how important it is to continue the fight to end extreme poverty around the world. Thank you Bono!

October 23, 2008 at 6:47 pm

I just received an email today from One with regards to the 2008 Women’s conference where Bono spoke. Although I was not there physically, I felt I was by watching the videos you have enabled us to view. At a time when our country is in pain it is true we do need to look beyond oneself and think about humanity. A great big thank you to Bono and his family for helping us think outside the box and think about how we can nurture, love, and inspire humanity. Thank you ONE for your continued support in the world!

Dana Smith
Westlake Village, CA

October 23, 2008 at 6:54 pm

Bono does great work but for the life of me i DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY HE SUPPORTS THE ECONOMIC POLICIES OF HIS “PROFESSOR” JSACHS “DR SHOCK” WHICH LEFT COUNTRIES IN EVEN WORSE POVERTY THAN THEY WERE IN BEFORE JSACHS POLCIES WENT INTO EFFECT. IF MR SACHS HAS CHANGED HIS WAYS, GREAT BUT PEOPLE NEED TO ASK WHY “ELEVATION PARTNERS” BONOS PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM PUT OUT THE GAME “MERCANARIES iII” SIMUNLATING THE INVASION OF VENUENZUELA. THIS GAME HAS SERIOUS POLITICAL IMPLICATOINS THAT CONTRADICT EVERYTHING U2 HAS STOOD FOR SPECIFICALLY IN REGARDS TO THE SONGS “MOTHERS OF THE DISSAPEARED” “ONE TREE HILL” “BULLET THE BLUE SKY” AND MANY OTHER…BONO HAS NOT RESPONDED TO THESE SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS!!!

SINCERLEY
U2 BIGGEST CONFUSED FAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GEORGE FERNANDEZ

October 23, 2008 at 7:52 pm

Even when things are bleak both in our own homes, and in our nation, Bono shows us how important it is not to forget those who are worst off than ourselves. We are blessed to live in a country who truly is an idea, a way of life that the world looks to us for guidance and the human desire to dream. Let us not be divided whether we are Republicans or Democrats. We should be UNITED, not just for America but our planet. The world is looking at us for hope in these difficult times. We mustn’t forget the rest of the world now because of our present state. We are fortunate . . . we are Americans.

October 23, 2008 at 8:09 pm

I wish the leaders of this world would realize that our lives effect everyone. There is enogh money in the world where nobody has to starve or be homeless, that includes animals.If Sara Palin can spend $150,000 on clothes and Michelle Obama can send $400.00 on champagne and lunch, there is NO excuse. Practice what u preach Mr. Obama and McCain…. SPREAD THE WEALTH.

October 23, 2008 at 9:32 pm

Bono’s speech is just about the most eloquent and moving testimony to America’s greatness I’ve ever heard. Thank you Bono for restoring our pride in a country that has lost its way of late. It should be required listening for those who aspire to lead it.

I would like to add that seven years ago this week - on 10.24.2001 - U2 played at Madison Square Garden for the first time after the tragedy of 9.11. I had the good fortune to attend that concert and it left me with a hope and a comfort that I still summon in times of trial. This speech recalls and reinforces that moment and that feeling.

October 23, 2008 at 10:01 pm

He should be given the Congressional Medal of Honor (US), Nobel Peace Prize, Knighted (UK), canonized, idolized & adored. He is one of the few that practices what he preaches, and he preaches loudly! Thank you Dublin for giving him a background; thank you Mr. & Mrs. Hewson for giving him life. Thank you to U2 for giving him a microphone & and a platform from which to sing! “Sing a new song, how long, to sing this song!”

October 24, 2008 at 9:35 am

If we are truly one body, then we cannot allow anyone to suffer the ravages of poverty, hunger or isolation for we all are impacted in some way. But it takes a tremendous commitment to organization, action and continued resources to make the change happen. God bless all of you for doing your part, either in your own communities or in far-reaching parts of the world. Remember, one body!!

October 24, 2008 at 12:37 pm

I agree with George Fernandez’s comment “HE SUPPORTS THE ECONOMIC POLICIES OF HIS “PROFESSOR” JSACHS “DR SHOCK” WHICH LEFT COUNTRIES IN EVEN WORSE POVERTY THAN THEY WERE IN BEFORE JSACHS POLCIES WENT INTO EFFECT. IF MR SACHS HAS CHANGED HIS WAYS, GREAT BUT PEOPLE NEED TO ASK WHY “ELEVATION PARTNERS” BONOS PRIVATE EQUITY FIRM PUT OUT THE GAME “MERCANARIES iII” SIMUNLATING THE INVASION OF VENUENZUELA. THIS GAME HAS SERIOUS POLITICAL IMPLICATOINS THAT CONTRADICT EVERYTHING U2 HAS STOOD FOR SPECIFICALLY IN REGARDS TO THE SONGS “MOTHERS OF THE DISSAPEARED” “ONE TREE HILL” “BULLET THE BLUE SKY” AND MANY OTHER…BONO HAS NOT RESPONDED TO THESE SERIOUS ALLEGATIONS!!!
Will Bono respond to these allegations? I hope so I for one want to believe everything he says but it is difficult to do so if these allegations are true…………..

October 24, 2008 at 12:41 pm

As a supporter of the One Campaign it never ceases to amaze me that the most articulate, intelligent, focused voice of these concerns is a rock star who attended little university. I love Bono and I believe he comes across the way he does because of his intellect and humility (despite his assertions to the contrary). I truly believe he intrinsically understands that the dire needs of the developing world, in this specific case Africa, are so much larger and so much more important then the petty daliances of celebrity. But he will use whatever advantage he has to push this noble and just campaign. I am not some blind sycophant. Bono is human, he has and does make mistakes like us all…(those looking for perfection on this Earth need to change the direction of their gaze upwards), but it is this very humanity that make his words ring all the truer. Bono will go down in the history books as one of the great humans of this century, way before many Presidents, Business Moguls, Trillionaires, and Movie Stars. God Bless you Bono

October 24, 2008 at 12:52 pm

How does one keep focusing on self-preservation in moments when teamwork is saving your life along with keep focusing on teamwork in moments when self-preservation is saving your life? We do this in every moment plus we are learning new ways to do this every day, so, there is never any reason to intentionally harm another.

October 24, 2008 at 1:36 pm

After listening to Bono speak I can’t help but ask all Americans, think about which button you push, which box your check or what line you write on this November 4. We need someone in office who not only speaks these words but feels them too.

Remember we were an idea first. Great things come out of great ideas.

October 24, 2008 at 2:03 pm

i, too, got caught up in the rhetoric and passion of bono as i watched the video of his talk at the womens convention….but, as i was reading the comments of g. fernandez i remembered that i had read at other sites questions about the economic policies put into play in these desperate, war-torn countries of africa….whatever happens, the change comes from within…people to people…governments have ulterior motives, the major one being, power. as we are experiencing in this country right now, collapse, due to governmental policies and political machiavellians, the time of the industrial military complex is over…let the buildings fall…and let the one people of this world learn to trust and respect and love one another….it is, afterall, the right thing to do…

October 24, 2008 at 2:31 pm

Please don’t forget that economic policies, governmental attitudes, attitudes toward aid - they all change over time. It’s a good thing that they do evolve. It is important to remember too that the work being done in Africa now is geared to governments with good records - look at the forward thinking government of Liberia under President Sirleaf Johnson and the results she has been able to achieve.

October 24, 2008 at 4:33 pm

BONO FOR PRESIDENT! If only it could be!!

October 24, 2008 at 5:40 pm

Incredible speech! I agree with Bono whole heartedly. I am a wife and a mother of four. I see my children in the faces of those images we see sent back from Africa. They cannot be allowed to suffer when we have what they need. As Bono said, It’ is not “charity,” it’s “justice.” It’s not a “cause,” but an emergency. It’s not politically motivated. Whether we elect a Democrat or a Republican president, this issue should remain in the forefront of executive business. The ONE campaign has done such a great job keeping the integrity of this emergency from becoming a political toy. As members of ONE we have to make sure whoever becomes President aware that the American people are going to hold accountable for keeping the promises that we have made in regards to this emergency! I love that Bono alluded to Dr. King’s “I have a Dream Speech” It should be an African dream also! I wish Bono could run for president! I guess I have to settle for waiting to see U2 tour again hopefully next year! Thanks to Bono! & Thanks to the ONE campaign!

October 24, 2008 at 9:13 pm

What a speech. I just got through watching the speech on the One blog, and was so inspired by what Bono said. I have been a One member since it first came out, but today made me relize that just signing a petition deosn’t mean much, it’s action. At times his speech made me laugh, at other times it brought me to tears. As of this day forward I vow to get more involved in the One campaign, by volunteering at events, spreading the words to my friends, and to do the things that need to get done. I’m no longer a One member from the comfort of my couch, and if anyone in Southe Florida needs a volunteer for a day, a week, or however long, you can contact me at rjk2kids@yahoo.com. I might not have the money to give, but I got the time to serve. Just the other day I was listening to Mchae W. Smith’s Place In This World, and I prayed to God to ask him to show me what my place in this world was, well I think I’ve been shown tonight, I need to get involved, and maybe one day I will save enough money to go to Africa, and serve right in the midst of it all. Thank you Bono for your inspiring words, you are a man after God’s heart! And what was funny tonight, I didn’t even think of you as a rock star tonight, just a wonderful human being doing the will of God. God Bless You, Robyn

October 24, 2008 at 9:56 pm

I have been a “fan” of U2 for 20 years now. It hasn’t been until these past few years that I have really truly begun to understand the true depth of the gifts Bono brings to the world. He does what Jesus requests all of us to do; he puts into practice the words many of us have learned as a child in Sunday School: “…LOVE(S) THE (LITTLE) PEOPLE OF THE WORLD…FOR THEY ARE WEAK AND WE ARE STRONG….”

We have to love and help our brothers and sisters of the world…”for the Bible told us so”. And Bono is teaching us how. He is a voice for those that cannot speak. He is wisdom for those that do not know. He is showing love for those that do not know how to love. He is helping those that cannot help themselves. And he is trying to do what many of us want to but do not have the means of doing…making a difference in a huge way that many just cannot comprehend.

Bono is human. He is ONE of many. Together we can make a difference. And Bono is trying to in a very mighty way trying to teach us how. Bono is a disciple in the true sense of the word.

Thank you, Bono. You are in my prayers, as is your family and our U2 family. I know they share you with a great many of people in this big world of ours. But how we appreciate their willingness to allow you to do the many works God has called you to do. And how I thank you for listening to His voice and following your calling.

God Bless you!
Elizabeth Sarkissian

October 25, 2008 at 4:59 am

I have always loved Bono, but hearing this speech made me love him even more. Twenty Cents! Twenty CENts! Twenty CEnts! I can give lots of Twenty CENTs to give someone immunizations! Where can I send my Twenty CENts?? I feel like there is SO much that can be done… and that there is SO much that can be done, if everyone does a little. And even though we do struggle financially and while some may not be able to give any thing, some of us can AT LEAST spare twenty CEnts!! Where is my tin can… let me fill it up with Quarters!
I have been looking for a good cause to be involved in. Thank you ONe.org! Thank you Bono, and Maria for having Bono talk. Horay!

October 25, 2008 at 9:50 am

I would just like to thank those people at ONE who made it possible for me and my friends to feel so welcomed at this event!

Seeing ALL of you again was like a “harambee” - a gathering of the family - and made ONE very special visitor from Uganda feel truly beloved by all of you. THANK YOU.

God bless each and everyONE of you.~

ONE HEART, ONE HOPE, ONE VOICE, ONE LOVE - debbie
http://www.mpwn-uganda.org

October 25, 2008 at 12:35 pm

Bono listened to his call from God , and answered, it’s time that we all do the same. When he was talking about Love Thy Neighbor as being a commandment, he was right. For Jesus was talking about the law being dead, and left us with 2 commandments, which are, love the Lord Thy God with all you heart, and to love thy neighbor as thyself. It’s time that we do love our neighbor, and the poor of the poor are our neighbor, ust as the person next door is. For we are all brothers, and sisters, and neighbors in Christ, and like Kelly said twenty cents, what is twenty cents. I’m going to start a jar like hers, because even though we ae stuggling financially, God will give more back to us then we ever gave for his children. I love you Bono for the man you are, for the insight you share, for the true caring that is in you heart, for bringing me back to my faith, not religion, but faith, and for dong what God has called you to do. You heard the call from The Almighty, and you answered it. God Bles You and Your family. Robyn

October 25, 2008 at 4:15 pm

All I gotta say is always wear your white One bracelet, use the Red One.org merchandise that gives their profits to the poorest of the poor people in multiple countries around the world (for food, Aids medicine, malaria nets, TB meds, etc….) & NEVER stop signing those critical petitions and emailing them to your Senators and the new President of The USA!!! Things will eventually change for the better…….by most importantly— spreading the word, telling others to sign petitions and attending rallies too!! Peace—> Stop Global Poverty NOW

October 25, 2008 at 11:27 pm

I have not once taken off my One bracelet since I got it at the Vertigo Tour. I was there at the speech, up very close. I knew about this event, but didn’t know it was up the way in Long Beach til a day before. I dropped everything and went. That was a spiritual jolt in the arm that was badly needed.

He’s so inspiring. His humility and humor really touches me. So does his heart. He also brought me back to my faith. Going to a U2 show is part revival. God is indeed in the house when they play. I felt Him, and was moved. And I realized the vast difference between faith and religion.

Thank you again, Bono. That speech was beautiful.

October 26, 2008 at 1:51 pm

I’ve been following U2 for 25 years now and he has been an inspiration in my life…All I need to say about this man “BONO” he’s one of the most amazing, humble ,greatest advocates of our time…He has touched and open our eyes…That speech saids it all….Hopefully one day I can meet this man and thank him personally for what he has done and accomplished for our country…BONO FOR PRESIDENT…

October 26, 2008 at 4:27 pm

Bono you are amazing. God bless you and all the people who are in the fight to make poverty history!

October 26, 2008 at 7:30 pm

This speech is really working to shake me out of my cocoon. It is amazing how much we resist calls to action that force us to break out and look halfway across the world. We are terribly resistant to moving beyond the borders of our own heads and our own homes and our own national borders. More voice’s like Bono’s are necessary to help us awake from this dream of separateness!

October 27, 2008 at 9:19 am

I don’t know what, if any, church Bono goes to, from his speeches about a Catholic mother and a Protestant father, maybe he doesn’t have one church at all. What I appreciate is the idea of church that he’s given me. The fact that I can take my church with me by doing something good, being someone who does good, someone who gives back, I think that’s the greatest form of worship to GOD, and Jesus, actually no matter what religion you are in fact, mine just happens to be Christian… I don’t think there are many people out there who can inspire idea’s like that without realizing it, who can jolt people out of their sleep with a joke, then make them aware of all the endless injustices and inequalities in the world, and even more aware that there is an equally endless amount of hope for change and goodness, and then put them back to bed with a growing determination to DO something when they wake up again…Thanks Bono.
Thanks too for all the amazing music U2 makes, and all the great works the rest of U2 do, just a little quieter I guess. Your all awesome!

October 27, 2008 at 11:31 am

Bono Please continue to take A+ care of yourself and family. We need your inspirational example
to get us into action. I do not have cable TV nor cell phones. I go to the Beauty School to get $6 hair cuts and leave a $5 tip (this is a win/win). I spend less than I make cuz I feel alive when I give to the International Rescue Committee and other organizations that I believe are responsible in managing finances. ONE is now another one of my favorite places that I choose. Thank you for being you.
Love Ya,Peggy

October 27, 2008 at 3:37 pm

Bono, You bring hope to people who feel hopeless; you inspire the uninspred.
The Bible says “Do unto others as you would have done unto you” You are a great example of this.
I saw a bumper sticker yesterday that reminded me of you;
It had the Muslim Moon, a peace symbol, an e that had the symbols for men & women, the star of David, an I with an symbol I couldn’t make out as it was too small, An S that had the yin & yang symbol in it, & the Christian Cross - reading “COEXIST”
I don’t know where I can get one, but when I find it, I’m getting it & putting on my car, & it will be the ONLY bumper sticker on my car.
Thank you for your influence on not just the white race, the black race, but the HUMAN RACE.
We have all forgotten that we all belong to the HUMAN RACE, If we can start to remember that, I beleive harmony can start to reign in a world of great dispare.

I am, & always will be, a BIG fan.
Catherine

October 27, 2008 at 6:35 pm

This is definately a unique speech….Bono has touched our hearts thru his music and now thru this speech. My husband is from one of the poorest country I had visit 10 year ago. Bangladesh is now suffering more than ever. My husband arrived a few days ago, and can feel the sufering of his beloved country. Yes as Americans as human beings we need to be conscoius of the extreme poverty that exists. No country should decide whether you live or die. Bonos’ speech should remind us of our mission ……A mission to succeed in love and sharing……A mission to see beyond our needs but the needs of others…..A mission to respect life and be greatful by giving life….A mission to LOVE!!!!!

November 1, 2008 at 2:23 pm

I had a great time at the confrenence . I was traveling with my friend Agnes from Uganda. I know she had a great time. She told me she enjoyed Bono’s speech and the whole program. I was so glad she could be there to see this while on her visit to the US. I know it will never be a day to forget, spending time with 2 great people in Long beach and seeing a powerful confrenece.

January 19, 2009 at 8:57 pm

I appreciate Bono speaking out on behalf of the worlds poor and sick. Don’t forget that the number one question asked Obama was “Will you legalize marijuana?”. Think about the benefits that medical cannabis can have on the millions of suffering Africans. I am very disturbed when I hear that UN Police are using international aid money to persecute cannabis growers in Africa and destroy such an important beneficial crop. Bono has enormous influence on UN leaders, and some of the world’s most powerful people. Please don’t think for a moment that by removing cannabis the UN is in any way helping the poor people of Africa or any other continent. This is a grave injustice, and I’m sure the sick and dying Africans effected by such laws would agree. The cannabis plant can help to provide food, clothing, shelter, safe medicine, and eco-friendly fuel. If the One Campaign really wants to help the poor, we should let them grow hemp, and if we must get involved, help them succeed in taking advantage of the many benefits of the hemp industry.
I hope Bono keeps up the good work, and helps to stop the bad work.
Thanx. www.nycamp.org

February 1, 2009 at 11:23 pm

Video conferencing is indeed a great innovation of Information Technology and Communications. I guess the news media is the first user of video conferencing.

February 12, 2009 at 12:04 pm

Once I was video conferencing with my college classmate and I had to go on a bathroom break, my computer was completely idle till when my kid sister thought it was just a movie so while she was just playing around with the mouse and my classmate scared her by conferencing. It was very scary for her but it was funny.