In his final address as President, Michael D. Higgins reflected on his two terms and the importance of community engagement, compassion, and empathy. He expressed gratitude for the support he received alongside his partner, Sabina. Higgins warned of current global challenges such as division and environmental degradation, reiterating the significance of words and shared values to overcome these issues. He urged that rejecting greed in favor of caring for the 'Other' is essential for humanity's future, highlighting that true Irishness can bridge divides and foster positive change.
It remains the greatest honour and privilege to serve you, to meet so many of you in your communities, to witness your compassion, empathy and kindness in so many different ways.
As I leave the Presidency, I would like to repeat my belief that words and how they are used matter, and furthermore, that the ideas which they draw on matter.
Those who reject the suggestion that we should live by, and encourage, an abstract version of accumulation and unrestrained greed are taking steps on behalf of all humanity.
When Irishness has been at its best, it has made real achievements in collapsing this false division.
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