leadership

Perfect Union: Striving for a More Perfect America This Fourth of July

Are there perfect human beings? No. Can a gathering of imperfect human beings create a perfect union? No. But the key word in the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution is “more.” We are constantly striving toward the ideal of a more perfect Union—a nation stronger, fairer, and more united.

This Fourth of July, let us reflect on that enduring aspiration. May we work together to uphold the principles of liberty, justice, and equality, not only on national holidays but every day.

A special thanks goes to the courageous men and women who sacrifice daily to serve the United States of America, both in uniform and through acts of public service. Your dedication helps us inch closer to the ideal of a more perfect Union.

This rose symbolizes our gratitude, respect, and shared commitment to building a better future for all.

Rose flower
A rose for the men and women who serve, reminding us of our shared pursuit of a more perfect Union.
Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #4

Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships communicates that love of country must equate to love of the country’s government – as opposed to communicating government’s duty to earn the love of its citizens.

 

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy

5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #3

Pressuring or forcing dual nationals to renounce one of their citizenships is analogous to creating a brick-less Berlin Wall. It locks in the citizen by making defection more difficult such that poor governance need not result in loss of subjects.

 

Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

5 Reasons for Dual Nationality: Reason #2

For as long as man has kept written history, leaders have recognized that dual nationality is a tool to keep the peace. Emperors and kings frequently married the offspring of rulers from other nations thereby creating a dual national in their spouse while encouraging peace and cooperation between the nations.

Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy

What Does Freedom Mean to You?

Here’s what freedom means to Persian poet and philosopher Rumi (1207-1273). What do you think?

Take someone who doesn’t keep score, who’s not looking to be richer, or afraid of losing, who has not the slightest interest even in his own personality: he’s free.  – Rumi

Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

Two Inspirational Quotes

There are several defining moments in life. When we reflect upon what is most important in our lives – it always comes down to relationships. Sharing two quotes by Persian poet and mystic Rumi (1207-1273) that struck me and a photo of two love birds. I wonder where they will fly off to next.

“Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.”

“Yesterday I was clever, so I wanted to change the world. Today I am wise, so I am changing myself.”

Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

With Ambassador Rudy Insanally: Reflections on Guyana and Global Diplomacy

Looking through memory lane, I came across a photo from 2010 with Guyana’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs (2001–2008) and longtime Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Rudy Insanally.

Ambassador Insanally had an illustrious diplomatic career. He served as President of the 48th Session of the UN General Assembly (1993–1994) and represented Guyana in countries including Venezuela, Colombia, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, Austria, and Japan. In 2009, the Government of Japan awarded him the Order of the Rising Sun, Grand Cordon, making him the first Caribbean national to receive this honor. He also served as Guyana’s Ambassador to Japan in 1992.

The photo was taken in his home, where he proudly displayed the award. It was a privilege to meet him and to work with him while serving alongside other former foreign ministers at international engagements.

My time in Guyana afforded me the opportunity to meet and interact with the President and Prime Minister, and to connect with other distinguished members of the Caribbean diplomatic community. These experiences deepened my appreciation for the importance of long-term partnerships and personal relationships in global affairs.

Ken Reiman with Ambassador Rudy Insanally, former Foreign Minister of Guyana
With Guyana’s former Foreign Minister Ambassador Rudy Insanally
Posted by reimanko in Global Affairs & Diplomacy

Words That Ring True Today

“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that stands right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong.”

— Abraham Lincoln

Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

When We Help the Homeless, We Help Ourselves

Japan Urban Homeless Project – Share with Others

When we help the homeless we help ourselves, our country, and our community. The strong and fortunate have a responsibility to help the weak and poor. Isn’t that what true power is? When we think about how we can utilize our talents to help the oppressed we are reminded of our obligations to one another. The call to care for the vulnerable is not new. It echoes through history and scripture alike.

Isaiah 58:7:  Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?

Here is a business proposal I created in my spare time to help Japan’s urban homeless. I wanted to find a way to address a social issue while utilizing the talent of Japan’s seniors.  I make no money off of this business idea. I simply wanted to share with others so that even one homeless person can get off the streets. That is reward in and of itself.  This was my attempt to create a business solution to address a social problem. Just trying to play my part as I can’t physically be in Japan to implement this.  Check the link below to read the proposal.

Japan Urban Homeless Project

Cover image for Japan Urban Homeless Project showing agricultural field and rural landscape in Japan
Posted by reimanko in Leadership & Identity

People Need a Voice and a Choice Let Yours Be Heard!

“Sometimes the person who has not been able to speak or be heard has the most powerful message to deliver.” Quote by Ken Reiman

Thanks to everyone who purchased my book and allowed me to share my experience with others. I hope it will inspire others to share their hopes and dreams too!

 

Posted by reimanko in Writing & Reflections