“Dearest young people, (…) Travelling around the world, I met young people of yesterday and today; I have seen the transformation of social conditions in which they live; I have seen the breaking down of so many securities; I have seen the sufferings of those who could not find work, of not being able to have more moments and places of encounter if not the empty noise of the clubs and bars or the maddening sound of motor racing…. Everything is in rapid evolution, in continuous change, so that it seems impossible to grip onto a foothold that will not collapse, or climb a step that will not wobble. I saw a generation grow with fear, a fear of being deceived and disappointed, a fear of giving something of oneself and to remain empty-handed; fear of finding oneself alone though in the midst of a crowd. But I have also met many young people, including many of you, who despite everything, know that in order to build a more united world, changes are needed, primarily personal ones, and therefore radical choices. And they make them”. (…) Read complete talk: Maria Voce’s keynote address to Genfest 2012