This lesson studies Haile Selassie's "The Essence of Power", delivered in its historical setting. After this short context paragraph, the reading gives the speech itself so students can examine context, power, and public memory in the speaker's own words.

The power which you possess is but one side of the coin; the other is responsibility. There is no power or authority without responsibility, and he who accepts the one cannot escape or evade the other. Each one of you and each servant of the Ethiopian nation and people would do well to ponder these words, to take them to his heart, and to guide his conduct in accordance with their teachings. This is the challenge which faces you today. Let your labours here during the coming year demonstrate your capacity to meet it.

May Almighty God guide and assist you in your work.

Each one of you and each servant of the Ethiopian nation and people would do well to ponder these words, to take them to his heart, and to guide his conduct in accordance with their teachings.