Let us join our efforts toward building the unshakable foundations for a culture of peace.

Anyone who has ever made a resolution discovers that the strength of that determination fades in time. The moment you feel that is when you should make a fresh determination. Tell yourself, “OK! I will start again from now!” If you fall down seven times, get up an eighth. Don’t give up when you feel discouraged-jus t pick yourself up and renew your determination each time.

Women are, in my view, natural peacemakers. As givers and nurturers of life, through their focus on human relationships and their engagement with the demanding work of raising children and protecting family life, they develop a deep sense of empathy that cuts through to underlying human realities.

But I believe we must not allow feelings of defeat to take root in our hearts.

No matter how hopeless or bleak things appear, the moment always comes when suddenly our spirit revives, and hope is reborn. That is why we must never give up.

What may look like a small act of courage is courage nevertheless. The important thing is to be willing to take a step forward.

Bravely overcoming one small fear gives you the courage to take on the next.