18th Anniversary Address November 2, 1948
"When we consider the time which is necessary to fulfill the needs of an
individual it will easily be understood that the needs of a vast country like
Ethiopia can only be filled progressively and by stages. For the life of the
world is such that periods of constructive achievement are followed by periods
of destruction: the period of construction brings peace and the period of
destruction brings uncertainty. We have always kept in mind that the union of
the spiritual strength of the people with the material power of the independent
nation provides the firm basis for our people to overcome the hardships and
difficulties of life facing them in this world. Ethiopia relies on Almighty God
and natural justice...
Imagination, devotion, perseverance, together with divine grace, will assure
your success."
H.I.M. Emperor Haile Selassie I
Addis Ababa
November 2, 1948
