The text is a speech given by the US President John F. Kennedy to the people of Berlin on December 11th, 1961, during a time of crisis. The President extends his warmest greetings to the people of Berlin and acknowledges that real peace and goodwill are more of a goal than a reality. He sympathizes with those who suffer from imposed separation, especially during the holiday season, and assures the people of Berlin of America's determination to support and sustain them in freedom. He encourages everyone to rededicate themselves to the principles of peace and goodwill towards men, which are the guiding principles of Christmas.