We have all been taught since we were very small children that actions speak louder than words, let our actions be those of peace and non-violence. We live in a world of turmoil, a world that often chooses violence for solutions to it’s angers and conflicts.
I challenge the people of this room and the world to change this trend and to walk with me throughout this century with peace and passion, to greet our enemies fists with open hands.
We must focus our energies on building our societies, not destroying them. Nobel peace prize Archbishop Desmond Tutu has asked me to ask all of you to think of us as a family. When we look upon the world as one family, we will no longer be able to turn our backs on the suffering of others, we will no longer send a bandaid to heal a mortal wound, we will no longer point a weapon at our brothers.
One by one, the change begins within each of us. See you can regulate people’s actions But you can never regulate their spirits. We can do this. I have pledged my life to this pursuit and I hope you will join me in this effort. The people of Rwanda and the world deserve a chance to live without fear and peace.
