Our world faces many challenges, crises and forces of division — such as poverty, violence, and human rights abuses — that undermine peace, security, development and social harmony among the world’s peoples.

To confront those crises and challenges, their root causes must be addressed by promoting and defending a shared spirit of human solidarity that takes many forms — the simplest of which is friendship.

Through friendship, we can contribute to the fundamental shifts that are urgently needed to achieve lasting stability, weave a safety net that will protect us all, and generate passion for a better world where all are united for the greater good.

Today (and on other days), sit down and talk to someone with whom you disagree. Take a new friend to lunch. Reach outside of your comfort zone and learn about other people.