Meaning: The quote by Dag Hammarskjold, a Swedish diplomat and the second Secretary-General of the United Nations, reflects the essence of the organization and its purpose. In this quote, Hammarskjold emphasizes the need for people to recognize the United Nations as a creation of their own making, rather than an obscure concept. This statement encapsulates the vision of the United Nations as an entity that belongs to and serves the collective interests of all people.

Hammarskjold's words convey a message of hope and optimism, suggesting that everything will be all right when individuals view the United Nations not as a distant and enigmatic entity, but as a reflection of their own aspirations and efforts. By likening the United Nations to a "drawing they made themselves," he underscores the idea that the organization is a product of collective human endeavor and imagination, rather than an abstract and detached concept.

The reference to a "weird Picasso abstraction" is particularly evocative, as it conjures images of the renowned artist's abstract and unconventional style. By employing this analogy, Hammarskjold highlights the perception of the United Nations as something unfamiliar and perplexing to many. However, he also implies that this perception can be transformed, urging people to shift their perspective and recognize the United Nations as something of their own creation, much like a personal drawing.

In essence, Hammarskjold's quote encourages individuals to take ownership of the United Nations and to perceive it as a tangible and accessible institution that represents their collective aspirations for peace, cooperation, and progress. It invites people to move beyond viewing the United Nations as an external and distant entity, and instead to embrace it as a reflection of their shared ideals and values.

The significance of this quote lies in its call for a shift in perception and attitude towards the United Nations. By urging people to see the organization as a "drawing they made themselves," Hammarskjold emphasizes the participatory nature of global governance and the role of individuals in shaping the direction and effectiveness of international cooperation. This perspective aligns with the foundational principles of the United Nations, which emphasize the importance of global solidarity and collaboration in addressing common challenges and advancing shared goals.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the need for greater awareness and engagement with the work of the United Nations. By encouraging people to see the organization in a more personal and relatable light, Hammarskjold's words promote a sense of ownership and responsibility for the collective efforts to promote peace, human rights, and sustainable development. This sentiment is particularly relevant in the context of contemporary global issues, where the role of the United Nations in addressing complex challenges such as climate change, conflict resolution, and humanitarian crises remains crucial.

In conclusion, Dag Hammarskjold's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of perception and the importance of active engagement with global institutions such as the United Nations. By urging people to view the organization as a reflection of their own creation, he emphasizes the collective responsibility and agency in shaping the future of international cooperation and solidarity. This quote encapsulates the spirit of inclusivity and shared purpose that underpins the ideals of the United Nations, and it encourages individuals to embrace their role in realizing the vision of a more peaceful and equitable world.