We are facing big problems, and there are certainly reasons to worry. War rages, conflicts are mounting, and diplomacy seems to be a forgotten word. Egoic desires and loudmouthed rhetoric fill the room. It is scary — and what is even worse, it almost seems hopeless, all things considered.

Yet the future is not determined — let us always remember that. However grim, or downright foolish, the world may seem, we must not give in. On the contrary, we must take it seriously and act accordingly.

We are not helpless pawns in a game; we have a say in this world. All of us — our ideas and reflections matter.

The future is not determined.

We need to be wise, and we need to be brave. We have the responsibility, and we have the ability. We can make a difference for the better.