Mark D. Walker, a Returned U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer from Guatemala, is an award-winning writer and President of Million Mile Walker. His new book is “The Guatemala Reader: Extraordinary Lives & Amazing Stories”.  Today we are focusing on the important soft power vs. hard power concepts that are under intense discussion.  Soft power, as opposed to hard power, is an example of how international overseas groups interact to make a difference in the lives of people abroad as well as benefiting their country’s image, business opportunities, diplomatic initiatives and partnerships. Some of the most prominent soft power organizations are the US Peace Corps, USAID, CARE, Rotary International, faith-based groups and other humanitarian service clubs. America’s credibility is devastated through the slash and burn of the USAID programs by Elon Musk and DOGE.  Russia and China are delighted that the US has weakened itself and is unilaterally surrendering its international leadership.