When the human soul is lost in the abyss of ignorance, and is blind to its inherent worth, the world becomes a battlefield where inalienable rights are violated and dignity is destroyed. Actions done in this dark, cold region of the human soul are disempowering and dehumanizing and imprison the individual with the chains of greed, anger and selfishness.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights speaks to the human soul and reminds all members of the human family that "all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act toward one another in a spirit of brotherhood."

As we review the articles outlined in the Declaration and see their relevance in our present lives, let each word serve to ignite our conscience and to cut the chains that imprison us. This freedom from ignorance rekindles the experience of what it means to be a human being born free and equal with dignity and rights.