Meaning: Eleanor Roosevelt, the longest-serving First Lady of the United States, was a prominent advocate for human rights and social justice. The quote "It isn't enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn't enough to believe in it. One must work at it" reflects her deep commitment to the pursuit of peace and the belief that achieving peace requires more than just words or belief – it requires dedicated action.

In this quote, Eleanor Roosevelt emphasizes the idea that simply discussing or professing a desire for peace is not sufficient to bring about real change. She stresses the importance of genuine belief in the possibility of peace, but goes further to assert that belief alone is not enough. Roosevelt argues that individuals must actively work towards the realization of peace in their communities, countries, and the world at large.

The first part of the quote, "It isn't enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it," underscores the need for true conviction in the possibility of peace. This sentiment reflects the understanding that genuine belief in the value and attainability of peace is a foundational requirement for any meaningful efforts to promote it. Without a fundamental belief in the potential for peace, discussions and conversations about it may lack the necessary sincerity and commitment.

The second part of the quote, "And it isn't enough to believe in it. One must work at it," highlights the necessity of action. Eleanor Roosevelt insists that belief must be accompanied by active engagement and effort. This aligns with her own tireless work as an advocate for human rights, equality, and peace. She believed that individuals have a responsibility to actively contribute to the creation of a more peaceful world through their actions and choices.

Eleanor Roosevelt's life and work exemplify her commitment to this philosophy. As First Lady, she was a vocal proponent of civil rights and social justice, and she continued her advocacy beyond her time in the White House. She played a pivotal role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and was a driving force behind its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948. Her dedication to the promotion of human rights and peace serves as a testament to the importance of not just talking about peace or believing in it, but actively working towards it.

This quote continues to resonate today as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of Eleanor Roosevelt's message. In a world marked by conflict, division, and injustice, her words urge us to move beyond rhetoric and passive belief and to actively engage in the pursuit of peace. Whether through grassroots activism, advocacy, diplomacy, or personal interactions, individuals can heed Roosevelt's call to work towards a more peaceful and just world.

In conclusion, Eleanor Roosevelt's quote encapsulates her belief in the transformative power of genuine conviction and dedicated action in the pursuit of peace. It serves as a timeless reminder that peace is not a passive aspiration but a goal that demands active engagement and commitment. Through her own life and advocacy, Roosevelt demonstrated the profound impact of working diligently towards the realization of peace. Her words continue to inspire and challenge individuals to be proactive agents of change in the ongoing quest for a more peaceful and just world.